Good evening everybody and welcome to another MARCA in English live blog, this time taking you through the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 clash between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid from the Santiago Bernabeu.
While Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid had to fight their way through a playoff battle against Manchester City to reach this stage, Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid secured automatic qualification with a strong showing in the league phase. Now, the stakes couldn’t be higher as they battle for a place in the quarter-finals.
After failing to secure direct qualification, they faced a daunting playoff tie against defending champions Manchester City – a challenge they met head-on. Thanks to a stunning hat-trick from Kylian Mbappé, Madrid sealed a 3-1 victory at the Bernabéu, proving once again their ability to thrive under pressure.
Despite their European success, Madrid’s domestic form has been inconsistent. A 2-1 defeat to Real Betis over the weekend halted their momentum, and with just one win in their last five LaLiga games, Ancelotti’s men will be looking to bounce back on the continental stage.
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid arrives at the Bernabéu with confidence after a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Athletic Club. Julian Alvarez’s goal secured a crucial win, and while Atletico has struggled defensively in Europe this season, their attacking prowess has been a key factor in their success.
Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid LIVE – Latest Updates
No surprises from Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti goes with the formation many expected, as Asencio partners Rudiger in defence. With Bellingham suspended, Brahim Diaz starts, along with the usual trio of Rodrygo, Vinicius and Mbappe.
Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid possible line ups
Real Madrid will be without Jude Bellingham, who is suspended due to yellow card accumulation. The England midfielder joins a growing injury list that includes Eder Militao, Dani Carvajal, Dani Ceballos, and Jesus Vallejo. However, Federico Valverde is expected to return and may be deployed in an unfamiliar right-back role.
Atletico Madrid also has concerns, with Cesar Azpilicueta and Koke unavailable due to injury. Despite these absences, Simeone’s squad remains strong, and Julian Alvarez–who has already netted six goals in this season’s Champions League–is expected to lead the attack alongside Antoine Griezmann.
Real Madrid possible starting XI: Courtois; Valverde, Rudiger, Asencio, Mendy; Tchouameni, Camavinga; Rodrygo, Diaz, Vinicius; Mbappe
Atletico Madrid possible starting XI: Oblak; Molina, Le Normand, Gimenez, Galan; Llorente, De Paul, Barrios, Lino; Griezmann, Alvarez
Where to watch Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid?
For fans in the United Kingdom, Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid can be seen on TNT Sports 1 (discovery+). Fans in Ireland can tune in via RTE, Virgin and Livescore.
US-based fans will be able to see Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid on CBS and TUDN.
What time does Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid start?
Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid is a 21:00 CET kick-off, which is local time in Spain. That means fans in the UK and Ireland can watch the game at 20:00 GMT.
Fans in the USA can tune in to watch Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid at 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT.
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