A spot in the Spanish Super Cup final is at stake as Real Madrid clashes with city rivals Atletico Madrid in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.
This encounter marks the start of three consecutive Madrid derbies, including a Copa del Rey meeting later this month.
Match Preview
Real Madrid arrives in Saudi Arabia riding high on a five-match winning streak, including a comfortable 3-1 victory over Arandina in the Copa del Rey.
With their eyes set on four trophies this season, they aim to secure the Super Cup, a competition they have won twice since its four-team format introduction in 2019-20.
Despite a recent defeat to Atletico, Real Madrid has responded emphatically with an unbeaten 19-game run in all competitions.
Conversely, Atletico Madrid has had a patchy run of form, winning two, drawing one, and losing two of their last five matches, sitting fifth in the league.
While Atletico has struggled for consistency, they remain a force to be reckoned with and are looking to secure their third Super Cup, having won it in 1984 and 2014.
They come into this match following a 3-1 Copa del Rey win against Lugo.
Team News
Real Madrid will miss Lucas Vazquez due to a muscle injury, and long-term absentees Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militao, and David Alaba continue their rehabilitation from anterior cruciate ligament injuries.
However, Ferland Mendy is likely to return to the left side of defense, and Toni Kroos is set to feature in midfield after recovering from an ankle issue.
For Atletico, Thomas Lemar remains sidelined with an Achilles injury, and Reinildo Mandava is away with the Mozambique squad for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Pablo Barrios might return to fitness but may not be ready for this semi-final. Key players like Griezmann and Morata will lead Atletico’s attack.
Predicted Lineups
Real Madrid: (4-3-1-2)
Lunin;
Carvajal, Rudiger, Nacho, Mendy;
Valverde, Kroos, Modric,
Bellingham;
Rodrygo, Vinicius
Atletico Madrid: (5-3-2)
Oblak;
Molina, Gimenez, Witsel, Hermoso, Lino;
Llorente, Koke, De Paul;
Griezmann, Morata
Prediction: Real Madrid 2-1 Atletico Madrid
Real Madrid, in scintillating form, aims to continue their winning streak against Atletico. Despite Atletico’s quality, recent inconsistencies could give Real Madrid the edge in a tight encounter, leading to their advancement to the Super Cup final.
