Real Madrid return to scene of last defeat for Atletico derby clash

MADRID – Spanish and European champions Real Madrid were unstoppable last season, unless they were facing city rivals Atletico Madrid.

The only two defeats Los Blancos suffered were inflicted by Diego Simeone’s side, who host Real Madrid on Sept 29 in a spicy La Liga derby clash.

Atletico were the last team to beat Real in the top flight, just over a year ago, with Carlo Ancelotti’s men unbeaten in 39 games since.

The Rojiblancos also turfed Madrid out of the Copa del Rey in January 2024 in the last 16, which is the only loss Real have suffered in the calendar year.

Former Real midfielder Guti told Mundo Deportivo: “The Madrid derbies are unique: the feeling that is breathed in the capital... the desire to show in the rival stadium…

“Real Madrid are starting to get going, and I’m sure Vinicius, Bellingham and Co. will come out on Sunday to take revenge for the defeat at the Metropolitano last season.”

Real are without star summer signing Kylian Mbappe after he suffered a thigh injury in the midweek win over Deportivo Alaves, but still have a galaxy of attacking stars to call on.

Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr, often the target of abuse from Atletico supporters, has hit top form ahead of the derby, while midfielder Jude Bellingham may be given more attacking responsibilities.

Young striker Endrick is another option for Ancelotti, with the Brazilian teenager impressing off the bench when given minutes.

Another option is to play with Luka Modric as an extra midfielder in a return to the 4-4-2 formation, rather than maintaining the 4-3-3, to help Real minimise Atletico’s threat.

After a sluggish start to the campaign where Real drew at Mallorca and Las Palmas inside the first three league games, Los Blancos have now won five in a row across all competitions.

“We’re getting better and it suits us because the schedule is very demanding,” said Ancelotti this week.

“We’ve come back well after the break and we want to continue like this for Sunday’s game, which is going to be very tough.”

The second-placed Real trail leaders Barcelona by four points and it could be seven by the time the derby kicks off, with Hansi Flick’s side facing Osasuna on Sept 28.

Atletico come into the match two points behind Los Blancos, after a fortunate late 1-0 win at Celta Vigo, earned by Julian Alvarez’s 90th-minute strike.

“(The derby) is a very important game... We have to prepare and think well about this match that will be important for what’s to come, and for the season,” said Alvarez.

The forward could start after coming off the bench against Celta, with Simeone using Alvarez in a variety of different roles.

“He’s a versatile player, he can play up front, he can play (in midfield), he gives us more options,” said the coach. AFP