Real Madrid take on Atletico Madrid in the Wanda Metropolitano in the first Madrid Derby of the season. Here’s your quick preview of the match.
The first Madrid Derby of the season will have huge implications for Real Madrid’s challenge for the La Liga title. Los Blancos have gotten off to a rocky start, with Barcelona currently sitting eight points clear of Madrid at the top of the table. If Real Madrid lose this match, and Barcelona pick up all three points against Leganes, it’s probably safe to kiss La Liga goodbye.
Real Madrid absolutely need a win. But Zidane has a huge challenge ahead of him. It looked like Gareth Bale might be making a comeback, but he got a brand new injury that has sidelined him once again. Keylor Navas is also still not up to full fitness. There was also an injury scare to Luka Modric, but it appears that Zidane will have Modric available after all.
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The best news for Real Madrid comes in the form of Dani Carvajal’s potential return. Carvajal had a heart condition which he said could have potentially forced him into an early retirement. But Carvajal looks set to start against Atletico. However, recovery from his injury involved serious rest and avoiding physical activity. It’s hard to tell whether Carvajal will be up to speed for the Derby.
Atletico have been having their own difficulties this season. They are almost certainly crashing out of the Champions League group stage. They haven’t lost any matches yet this season, but they have five draws.
Real Madrid need to ensure that changes on Saturday. Los Blancos will be hoping to deliver Atletico their first lost of the season in order to salvage what’s left of their title campaign.