The stage is set for another thrilling Madrid derby as Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid clash in the Champions League last-16 first leg at the Bernabeu tonight.
With only two points separating them in La Liga, both teams enter this crucial European encounter evenly matched. Their domestic meetings this season have ended in draws, adding to the anticipation of a fiercely contested battle.
Atletico Eyeing Redemption, Real Madrid Seeking Dominance
Atletico Madrid head into this tie with momentum after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao, thanks to Julian Alvarez’s decisive goal. The win keeps Diego Simeone’s men within touching distance of league leaders Barcelona.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid suffered a setback at the weekend, falling to Real Betis and slipping three points behind the top spot. However, history favors Los Blancos in this competition, they have knocked Atletico out in all five of their previous Champions League knockout encounters.
Atletico Madrid Team News & Predicted XI
Diego Simeone faces a couple of selection headaches, with key figures Koke and César Azpilicueta unavailable. Despite their absence, Atletico boast a nearly full-strength squad.
Julian Alvarez could return to the starting XI after his match-winning performance last weekend. The Argentine forward has been in stellar form, netting 21 goals across all competitions, including six in the Champions League, where he shares the club’s top-scorer status with Antoine Griezmann.
Predicted Atletico Madrid lineup:
Oblak; Molina, Le Normand, Gimenez, Galan; Simeone, De Paul, Barrios, Lino; Griezmann, Alvarez
Match Details: Kickoff Time & Where to Watch
Date: Tuesday, March 4, 2025
Kickoff: 20:00 GMT
Venue: Santiago Bernabeu
TV Channel: TNT Sports 1
Can Atletico finally break their Champions League curse against Real Madrid, or will Carlo Ancelotti’s side maintain their dominance? The battle for Madrid takes center stage tonight.
