Atlético Madrid vs. Real Madrid: Champions League Round of 16 Second Leg Preview

Match Details

• Fixture: Atlético Madrid vs. Real Madrid
• Competition: UEFA Champions League, Round of 16 (Second Leg)
• Date: Thursday, March 13, 2025
• Kickoff Time: 1:30 AM IST
• Venue: Riyadh Air Metropolitano
• Aggregate Score: Real Madrid leads 2-1
• Referee: Szymon Marciniak

Match Preview

The Madrid Derby takes center stage once again as Atlético Madrid hosts Real Madrid in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash. With a narrow 2-1 advantage from the first leg, Los Blancos will look to finish the job, while Atlético Madrid hopes to overturn the deficit in front of their home fans.

First Leg Recap

The first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu saw Real Madrid edge past their city rivals with a 2-1 victory. Goals from Vinícius Jr. and Jude Bellingham secured a crucial lead, while Antoine Griezmann pulled one back for Atlético, keeping the tie wide open.

Current Form & Team News

Atlético Madrid

Diego Simeone’s men come into this fixture with determination, having had a mixed run of form in recent matches. The Rojiblancos will rely on their defensive resilience and counter-attacking prowess to break down Real Madrid.

• Key Players: Antoine Griezmann, Álvaro Morata, Rodrigo De Paul
• Injuries & Suspensions: No major injuries reported
• Tactical Setup: Atlético is expected to employ a high-pressing 4-4-2 formation with quick transitions from defense to attack.

Real Madrid

Carlo Ancelotti’s side has been in exceptional form, both domestically and in Europe. With their Champions League pedigree, they will aim to maintain their lead and progress to the quarterfinals.

• Key Players: Vinícius Jr., Jude Bellingham, Luka Modrić
• Injuries & Suspensions: Éder Militão and Thibaut Courtois remain long-term absentees
• Tactical Setup: Real Madrid is likely to stick to a fluid 4-3-3 formation, focusing on ball control and exploiting spaces in Atlético’s defense.

Head-to-Head Record

• Total Meetings: 233
• Real Madrid Wins: 115
• Atlético Madrid Wins: 57
• Draws: 61

Key Battles to Watch

• Antoine Griezmann vs. Antonio Rüdiger – Atlético’s talismanic forward will have to navigate past Madrid’s rock-solid defender.
• Jude Bellingham vs. Koke – A midfield battle that could dictate the tempo of the game.
• Vinícius Jr. vs. Nahuel Molina – The pacey winger will look to exploit the right flank and create goal-scoring opportunities.

Match Prediction

With Real Madrid holding a slender advantage and their exceptional record in the Champions League, they are the favorites to progress. However, Atlético Madrid’s resilience at home cannot be underestimated. Expect a high-intensity contest with both teams going all out for a spot in the quarterfinals.

Prediction: Atlético Madrid 1-1 Real Madrid (Real Madrid advances 3-2 on aggregate).