Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: Three key battles to look out for in UEFA Champions League Round of 16 derby clash

Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: Three key battles to look out for in UEFA Champions League Round of 16 derby clash

Real Madrid hosts Atletico Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu for the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 clash. With both teams in top form and separated by just two points in La Liga, individual battles across the pitch could tilt the scales in one team’s favour. Here are the three key matchups to watch:  

– A battle of energy and intelligence in midfield. Camavinga’s defensive awareness and ability to push forward make him a crucial cog in Real’s system.

– De Paul, Atletico’s midfield general, must disrupt Camavinga’s influence by closing down space and pressing aggressively.

– If Camavinga finds room to operate, he could dictate the tempo and link up with Real’s attacking trio. De Paul’s job will be to ensure that doesn’t happen.

– Mbappe’s blistering pace, dribbling, and finishing make him one of the most dangerous forwards in world football. If given space, he can change the game single-handedly.

– Le Normand, likely tasked with marking him, must be disciplined, tracking Mbappe’s runs while avoiding reckless challenges.

– The key for Atletico will be limiting Mbappe’s one-on-one situations and cutting off passing lanes to him. If Le Normand struggles, Simeone might need extra defensive cover.

– Rudiger , a physically imposing and aggressive defender, will be eager to bounce back after a poor outing against Real Betis.

– Griezmann’s movement, intelligence, and ability to create and score make him a constant threat. He will try to pull Rudiger out of position, creating space for his teammates.

– If Rudiger can keep Griezmann quiet, it will significantly reduce Atletico’s attacking threat. However, if the Frenchman finds pockets of space, he could cause real damage.