The Champions League Round of 16 returns with a thrilling Madrid derby as Atletico Madrid host Real Madrid in the second leg at the Metropolitano Stadium. With Los Blancos holding a narrow 2-1 advantage from the first leg, Diego Simeone’s men will need a strong performance at home to overturn the deficit and keep their European dream alive.
Atletico Madrid Aiming for a Historic Comeback
Atletico Madrid find themselves in a familiar position, trailing after the first leg in a Champions League knockout tie. However, history is on their side when playing the return leg at home, having successfully overturned a deficit in similar scenarios three times in past campaigns.
Simeone’s side boasts an impressive record at home in Europe, having gone 28 years unbeaten in the Champions League knockout stages when playing in Madrid. The last time they lost such a match was against Ajax in 1997. This resilience will be key against their city rivals, especially after suffering a late collapse in La Liga last weekend with a shocking 3-2 loss to Getafe.
Atletico have been dominant in domestic cup competitions against Real Madrid, remaining unbeaten in their last five encounters. However, in European competition, it has always been a different story, with Real Madrid winning all previous Champions League knockout ties against them, including the 2014 and 2016 finals.
Julian Alvarez, who scored a stunning goal in the first leg, will again be crucial for Atletico’s attacking play. The Argentine has seven goals in nine Champions League matches this season, forming a dangerous partnership with Antoine Griezmann.
Alvarez in Madrid ️#UCL pic.twitter.com/g84PMmB9NQ
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 12, 2025
Real Madrid Eyeing Another Knockout Masterclass
Real Madrid are synonymous with success in the Champions League. Their ability to navigate high-pressure knockout ties is unmatched, and Ancelotti’s men will be confident heading into this second leg despite facing an intense atmosphere at the Metropolitano.
Los Blancos are coming off a hard-fought 2-1 win against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga, but their performance was far from convincing. They were outshot 20-10 and dominated in possession, raising concerns about their ability to control the game against Atletico.
Carlo Ancelotti will be relieved to have Jude Bellingham back after suspension, providing an extra boost in midfield. Bellingham has been one of the standout performers this season, contributing heavily in attack and defense.
The left ankle
Brahim Díaz ⚽️#UCL pic.twitter.com/SPr9V3lMR2— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 12, 2025
Real Madrid have historically been excellent in finishing the job after winning the first leg of a Champions League knockout tie. They have only failed to advance once in their last 22 attempts when leading from the first leg – a stat that will give them confidence heading into this crucial encounter.
Team News and Possible Lineups
Atletico Madrid:
Diego Simeone will be pleased to have a mostly fit squad, with Cesar Azpilicueta returning to the matchday squad. However, club captain Koke remains sidelined. Nahuel Molina and Robin Le Normand could keep their places in the starting XI after featuring against Getafe.
Expected Lineup (4-4-2):
Oblak; Molina, Gimenez, Le Normand, Javi Galan; Simeone, Marcos Llorente, De Paul, Lino; Alvarez, Griezmann
Real Madrid:
Real Madrid will be without Dani Ceballos, Dani Carvajal, and long-term absentee Eder Militao. However, Antonio Rudiger and Thibaut Courtois are expected to return after missing the weekend fixture.
Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Ferland Mendy were all rested against Rayo and should start. Bellingham’s return is likely to be the only change in attack, possibly pushing Brahim Diaz to the bench.
Expected Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Rudiger, Mendy; Tchouameni, Camavinga; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr; Mbappe
Key Battles to Watch
- Julian Alvarez vs. Real Madrid Defense – Alvarez was exceptional in the first leg, scoring a brilliant goal. Real Madrid will need to be wary of his movement and finishing ability.
- Jude Bellingham vs. Atletico Midfield – With his return to the squad, Bellingham will be instrumental in dictating the tempo for Real Madrid.
- Vinicius Jr. vs. Atletico Full-backs – Vini Jr.’s pace and dribbling can cause havoc on the left flank, and Atletico’s defense must be at their best to contain him.
Jambobet Predictions for the Match
Match Winner: Draw (1-1)
While Atletico will come out strong, Real Madrid’s experience in knockout ties could see them hold firm for a draw, which would be enough to see them through to the quarter-finals.
Both Teams to Score (GG): Yes
With both teams possessing attacking quality, goals are expected from both sides.
Over 2.5 Goals (Ov 2.5): No
Despite the attacking talent on display, this game could be a tight, cagey affair, with Atletico focusing on their defensive solidity to try and force extra time.
The stage is set for an electrifying Champions League night in Madrid, with everything on the line for both clubs. While Atletico Madrid will be hoping to pull off another famous comeback, Real Madrid will look to extend their dominance over their city rivals in European competition.
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