The Madrid Derby: A Rivalry Rekindled

Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid: A Clash of Rivals

Introduction

The highly anticipated Madrid derby between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid is set to take place on September 24th, 2023 at the Civitas Metropolitan Stadium in Madrid, Spain. This clash of rivals promises to be an intense battle between two of the biggest teams in La Liga. Real Madrid, the reigning champions, will look to maintain their perfect record this season, while Atletico Madrid aims to bounce back from a recent defeat and climb up the league standings.

Background

Real Madrid enters the derby on the back of a 1-0 victory over Union Berlin in the mid-week Champions League tie, making it six wins in six games across all competitions this season. Under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, Los Blancos have been in exceptional form and will be aiming to extend their dominance in the league. Their last league result was a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Real Sociedad.

On the other hand, Atletico Madrid suffered a 3-0 defeat to Valencia in the league and drew 1-1 with Lazio in the European top-flight club competition. Diego Simeone’s side will be eager to turn their fortunes around and climb up from their current seventh-place position in the league table.

How to Watch

For fans eagerly awaiting the Madrid derby, there are several options to watch the match. The game will be broadcast live on TV on ITV4, Viaplay Sports 2, and LaLigaTV. Additionally, it can be streamed online through Viaplay, LaLigaTV, and ITVX. Fans unable to watch the match can follow the live updates on GOAL.

Team News

Atletico Madrid will be without key players such as Thomas Lemar, Caglar Soyuncu, Reinildo Mandava, Rodrigo De Paul, and Pablo Barrios due to injuries. If Koke passes a late fitness test, he is expected to fill in for Barrios in the middle. Memphis Depay’s availability for the Madrid derby is uncertain. Antoine Griezmann and Alvaro Morata are set to lead the attack, with Samuel Lino operating from the left wing-back position.

For Real Madrid, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. are fit and are expected to feature in the derby. Arda Guler has also returned to training. Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militao, and Dani Carvajal will miss the match due to injury. Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Eduardo Camavinga are likely to start, meaning Luka Modric and Toni Kroos may have to settle for a place on the bench.

Head-to-Head Record

The rivalry between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid has produced some memorable encounters. In their most recent meeting earlier this year, they played out a 1-1 draw in La Liga. When it comes to knockout competitions, Real Madrid emerged victorious in the Copa del Rey clash, winning 3-1 on aggregate after extra time.

Conclusion

The Madrid derby is not just a football match; it represents a unique clash of styles, history, and fierce rivalry. Both teams have a rich tradition and a passionate fan base. The outcome of this encounter will not only have immediate implications on the league table but also add another chapter to the storied history between these two giants of Spanish football. Football fans around the world will be eagerly watching as Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid battle it out on the pitch.