Atlético Madrid – Real: Carlo Ancelotti’s line-up already known

Real Madrid travel to the Cívitas Metropolitano to face Atlético Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 this Wednesday. With kickoff just hours away, Carlo Ancelotti has already finalized his starting eleven.

The Champions League is reaching a crucial phase, with the last remaining spots for the quarter-finals set to be decided before the first international break of 2025. After a thrilling first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid head into this decisive encounter with a narrow 2-1 advantage. Given the intensity of the Madrid derby and the stakes involved, this clash promises to be a battle fought until the very last whistle.

For Ancelotti, this game presents an opportunity to consolidate the team’s dominance over their city rivals. The experienced Italian coach is known for sticking to his trusted lineup in crucial matches, and this time is no different. With a near-complete squad at his disposal, Ancelotti will be fielding his strongest possible eleven.

One key boost for Real Madrid is the return of Jude Bellingham. The Englishman was absent in the first leg due to suspension but is now ready to make an impact. His presence in midfield adds creativity and dynamism, something Madrid will need against an aggressive Atlético side desperate to overturn the deficit. Additionally, Federico Valverde is back to full fitness after recovering from a minor injury, further strengthening Los Blancos’ options in midfield and defense.

Ancelotti has been fortunate with injuries, with only Dani Ceballos remaining sidelined. This means he can deploy his preferred defensive structure, anchored by the formidable Thibaut Courtois in goal. The Belgian shot-stopper, who once played for Atlético, will be eager to prove a point against his former team.

In defense, Ferland Mendy regains his position at left-back, offering defensive solidity and support in attack. Antonio Rüdiger and Raúl Asensio will form the central defensive pairing, ensuring resilience at the heart of the backline. Meanwhile, Valverde is expected to deputize at right-back, a role he has played exceptionally well whenever Dani Carvajal has been unavailable.

The midfield will be orchestrated by Aurélien Tchouaméni, who has been in outstanding form lately. Operating as a deep-lying playmaker, he will be responsible for shielding the defense while initiating attacking transitions. Ahead of him, Bellingham is set to take up an advanced midfield role, linking up with the attack and adding a goal-scoring threat from deep.

Another interesting selection is Brahim Díaz, who has impressed in recent weeks with his dribbling ability and quick movement. The young Spaniard is expected to start ahead of Luka Modrić, despite the Croatian legend’s wealth of experience. Díaz’s energy and ability to break defensive lines will be crucial in unlocking Atlético’s compact defensive setup.

Up front, Real Madrid will rely on their electrifying attacking trio of Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo Goes, and Kylian Mbappé. While there have been murmurs of a lack of chemistry between the three forwards, their individual brilliance remains undeniable. If they can synchronize their movements and capitalize on scoring opportunities, they will pose a significant challenge for Atlético’s defense.

Vinícius Júnior, in particular, has a history of tormenting Atlético with his pace and dribbling ability. The Brazilian winger will be a key figure on the left flank, tasked with breaking through Diego Simeone’s disciplined defensive lines. On the right, Rodrygo will look to exploit any gaps left by Atlético’s aggressive press, while Mbappé will spearhead the attack, aiming to silence his critics after a below-par performance in recent matches.

Atlético, on the other hand, will be missing several key players due to injuries and suspensions. This gives Real Madrid an added advantage, but Simeone’s side is known for their resilience and tactical discipline. The home crowd at the Metropolitano will undoubtedly create a hostile atmosphere, adding to the pressure on Ancelotti’s men.

With everything on the line, Real Madrid cannot afford any lapses in concentration. A single goal could change the entire complexion of the tie, making defensive solidity just as crucial as attacking flair. Ancelotti’s team will need to strike the right balance between patience and urgency to navigate this challenge successfully.

Despite holding a slim advantage, Madridistas will be hoping for a commanding performance that leaves no room for doubt. A victory here would not only secure passage to the quarter-finals but also reinforce Real Madrid’s status as one of the favorites to lift the Champions League trophy once again.

As the clock ticks down to kickoff, all eyes are on Ancelotti’s men. Will they withstand the pressure and deliver when it matters most? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this Madrid derby will be nothing short of a spectacle.

Expected Line-up:

Real Madrid vs Atlético Madrid
Thibaut Courtois – Ferland Mendy, Raúl Asensio, Antonio Rüdiger, Federico Valverde – Aurélien Tchouaméni, Jude Bellingham, Brahim Díaz – Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo Goes, Kylian Mbappé.

With the stakes higher than ever, Madrid fans will be hoping their team rises to the occasion. The battle for European glory continues, and Real Madrid will look to take another step closer to their ultimate goal.