Champions League: Real Madrid vs. Atletico Madrid Picks — Reigning Champions to Make Home Advantage Count? (Mar 4)

A blockbuster tie is set for the round of 16 in the Champions League, as Madrid rivals Real and Atletico collide for a spot in the last eight.

Atletico are one of few teams that have avoided defeat against Los Blancos this term, with draws having been played out in each of the two La Liga clashes.

However, Real Madrid have already flexed their muscles in the Champions League this year, dominating their playoff tie against Man City in February to record a 6-3 aggregate win.

Odds

Draws Played Out in Last Three H2H Clashes

Real and Atletico have played out 1-1 draws in the last three meetings, while Atletico are unbeaten in their last five La Liga clashes with Los Blancos.

This will be a repeat of the 2016 and 2014 Champions League finals, with both being won by Real. However, the latest UCL clash between the sides was won 2-1 by Atletico. But, Real still progressed via a 4-2 aggregate success in 2016-17.

Real Madrid vs. Atletico Madrid Key Stats

• Real Madrid have avoided defeat in their last nine knockout matches in the Champions League.
• Atletico Madrid have recorded wins in each of their last three Champions League away matches; marking the first time since 1973-74 that they have achieved that feat.

Real Madrid Team News

Dani Ceballos is expected to miss out due to a muscle injury on Tuesday. Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao remain out until the start of next season.

Possible Lineup

T. Courtois (GK); L. Vazquez, A. Rudiger, D. Alaba, F. Mendy, J. Bellingham, F. Valverde, E. Camavinga, Rodrygo, K. Mbappe, Vinicius Jr

Atletico Madrid Team News

The visitors will only have one injury issue this week. Koke is expected to sit out of the Madrid derby due to a lower leg issue.

Possible Lineup

J. Oblak (GK); N. Molina, R. Le Normand, C. Lenglet, C. Azpilicueta, G. Simeone, R. De Paul, M. Llorente, C. Gallagher, J. Alvarez, A. Griezmann

Real Madrid vs. Atletico Madrid Picks

Wins in the Madrid derby have been a rarity for Real in recent seasons, and that has been evident in back-to-back draws already this season.

However, Los Blancos are a different animal in the Champions League. Atletico’s defensive approach will see them look to strike on the counter-attack, but Real’s excellent quality in the final third should prove good enough to give them an important first leg advantage.