The “Metropolitano” club, having revamped their squad last season with significant spending, only managed to reclaim third place in La Liga. Currently, there are some inconsistent stretches, but overall they maintain their usual level: the battle for the Copa del Rey continues, and a playoff spot in the Champions League is almost secured. However, in La Liga, their chance to lead was lost, and once again, a gap from their eternal rivals has formed. Already in January, they only managed a draw with Real Sociedad.
Their great neighbor did not win any titles in 2025, which cost Ancelotti his job. His successor, Xabi Alonso, started with an early exit from the Club World Cup. But then came a decent run, with mostly wins—including against Barcelona—although they lost the derby 2-5. Afterwards, there was another slump, and in La Liga, the leader was once again behind the Catalans. There were rumors of another coaching change, but for now, faith remains in the former midfielder. After the break, they thrashed Betis 5-1.
Simeone’s side averages 1.79 goals scored per game, conceding twice less—0.89 per match. Their neighbors average 2.16 scored and 0.89 conceded.
Atletico won four times in a row before the last matchday
58% of Atletico Madrid’s matches end with both teams scoring and the average total goals per match is 2.68
Real Madrid has won all of their last four matches
53% of Real Madrid’s matches end with both teams scoring and the average total goals per match is 3.05.
Atletico (probable lineup): Oblak – Ruggeri, Gantzko, Pubil, Llorente – N. Gonzalez, Koke, Barrios, Simeone – Sorloth, Alvarez.
Real Madrid (probable lineup): Courtois – Fran Garcia, Heisen, Rudiger, Asensio – Bellingham, Tchouameni, Guler – Vinicius Junior, Mbappe, Rodrygo.
In the last thirteen derbies, Courtois and company have won only once, and moreover, have lost twice in a row.
