Anticipation Builds as Atletico Madrid Welcomes Real Madrid for La Liga Clash

Atletico Madrid is preparing to face Real Madrid in a highly anticipated La Liga fixture at the Estadio Cívitas Metropolitano. This upcoming match presents an opportunity for Atletico to maintain their unbeaten run in the league. Manager Diego Simeone faces a selection challenge as his team returns to action just three days after a demanding encounter with Celta Vigo.

Last season, Atletico Madrid delivered Real Madrid their sole defeat in the 2023-24 campaign. Since then, the team has strengthened their offensive lineup with the additions of Alexander Sørloth and Julián Alvarez, though both strikers are still finding their rhythm. Simeone’s pivotal decision will be which forward to start alongside Antoine Griezmann, who has been instrumental with three goals and four assists this season.

The defensive lineup is expected to be anchored by goalkeeper Jan Oblak, who has recorded five clean sheets in seven league games. Oblak will rely on the sturdy partnership of José María Giménez and newcomer Robin Le Normand. Meanwhile, Reinildo is expected to fill in for the injured César Azpilicueta.

In midfield, the duo of Rodrigo De Paul and Koke will aim to disrupt Real Madrid’s attack, especially with tactical variations from Real’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti. Conor Gallagher is likely to feature, providing offensive support and defensive tenacity against Real Madrid’s formidable lineup.

For Real Madrid, the match comes on the heels of a victory over Alaves. Despite their win, the team suffers from injuries, with key players like Kylian Mbappe sidelined for weeks. In terms of lineup, Daniela Carvajal and Antonio Rudiger are expected to return to fitness, while David Alaba remains unavailable due to injury.

The match is set for Sunday, September 29, at 9:00 p.m. local time. However, fans in the United States will need to stream the event as it will not be broadcast live on television. Streaming options include ESPN+ and the ESPN app, catering to the American audience with kickoff times ranging from noon to 3:00 p.m. depending on the time zone.

The last few derbies have seen Atletico Madrid securing victories in two of their last three outings against Real Madrid at the Metropolitano. The absence of several key players in Real Madrid’s lineup suggests a potential edge for Atletico, but a tightly contested match is anticipated.