Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid: Lineups and Predictions for the Madrid Derby

The First Madrid Derby of the Season

The highly anticipated Madrid derby is set to take place on Sunday evening, with Atletico Madrid hosting Real Madrid in La Liga. Both teams are unbeaten in the Spanish first division this season, although they trail behind Hansi Flick's Barcelona. Atletico Madrid, with four wins and three draws in seven outings, are two points behind their city rivals and could leapfrog them with a victory at the Metropolitano.

Atletico Madrid Team News and Predicted Lineup

Atletico Madrid will be without Cesar Azpilicueta, Pablo Barrios, and Thomas Lemar due to injuries. However, manager Diego Simeone has a wealth of options, particularly in the attacking third. Julian Alvarez, who scored a late winner against Celta Vigo, will partner Antoine Griezmann up front. The predicted lineup for Atletico Madrid is: Jan Oblak; Robin Le Normand, Jos Mara Gimnez, Reinildo; Marcos Llorente, Rodrigo De Paul, Koke, Conor Gallagher, Rodrigo Riquelme; Antoine Griezmann, Julian Alvarez.

Real Madrid Team News and Predicted Lineup

Real Madrid will be missing Kylian Mbappe due to a leg injury, which could see him sidelined for several weeks. Young Brazilian Endrick may replace him. David Alaba, Dani Ceballos, and Brahim Diaz are also out, but Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Carvajal have returned to the squad. The predicted lineup for Real Madrid is: Thibaut Courtois; Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy; Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, Luka Modric; Jude Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr..

Match Predictions and Key Factors

The Madrid derby is notoriously difficult to predict, often resulting in cagey, low-scoring affairs. With Mbappe's absence, Real Madrid may revert to a 4-3-1-2 system, which could see Jude Bellingham playing in an advanced role. Atletico Madrid's stubborn defense could frustrate Real Madrid, especially given their recent struggles on the road.

The match holds significant importance for both teams, with Real Madrid aiming to reduce Barcelona's lead at the top of La Liga and Atletico Madrid looking to usurp their city rivals into second place. The encounter promises to be a thrilling clash between two of Spain's top teams.