A place in the Spanish Super Cup final is on the line as Real Madrid take on city rivals Atletico Madrid in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.
This encounter marks the start of three consecutive Madrid derbies, including a Copa del Rey encounter later this month.
Match Preview
Real Madrid arrive in Saudi Arabia on a five-match winning streak, including a comfortable 3-1 victory over Arandina in the Copa del Rey.
With their eyes on four trophies this season, they aim to ensure the Super Cupa competition they have won twice since its introduction to the four-team format in 2019-20.
Despite a recent After their defeat against Atletico, Real Madrid responded emphatically with a 19-game unbeaten run in all competitions.
Conversely, Atletico Madrid have been in patchy form, winning two, drawing one and losing two of their last five matches, placing fifth in the league.
Even though Atletico have struggled for consistency, they remain a force to be reckoned with and are looking to ensure their third Super Cupafter winning it in 1984 and 2014.
They come into this match after a 3-1 King’s Cup win against Lugo.
Team News
Real Madrid will miss Lucas Vazquez with muscle injury and long-term absences Thibaut CourtoisEder Militao and David Alaba continue their rehabilitation following anterior cruciate ligament injuries.
However, Ferland Mendy is likely to return on the left side of defense and Toni Kroos is expected to feature in midfield after recovering from an ankle problem.
For Atletico, Thomas Lemar remains sidelined with an Achilles tendon injury and Reinildo Mandava is out. Mozambique team for the African Cup of Nations.
Pablo Barrios could return to form but might not be ready for this semi-final. Key players like Griezmann and Morata will lead Atletico’s attack.
Planned lineups
Real Madrid: (4-3-1-2)
Lunine;
Carvajal, Rudiger, Nacho, Mendy;
Valverde, Kroos, Modric,
Bellingham;
Rodrygo, Vinicius
Atlético Madrid: (5-3-2)
Oblak;
Molina, Giménez, Witsel, Hermoso, Lino;
Llorente, Koke, De Paul;
Griezmann, Morata
Prediction: Real Madrid 2-1 Atlético Madrid
In-form Real Madrid aim 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.
