Real Madrid, the current Champions League title holders, will face a tough challenge in the round of 16 against their city rivals, Atletico Madrid.
The reigning champions reached the round of 16 after defeating 2023 champions Manchester City 6-3 on aggregate in the previous playoff round. However, their path to advancement remains challenging as they face Atletico. Diego Simeone’s team qualified directly for this stage by finishing in the top eight during the league phase.
Here’s what you need to know before watching the match.
How to Watch and Betting Odds
- Date: Tuesday, March 4
- Time: 3 PM ET
- Location: Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain
- Stream: Paramount+
- Betting Odds: Real Madrid -115; Draw +250; Atletico Madrid +330
Key Match Storylines
Real Madrid’s remarkable ability to win even when not playing perfectly continues, although it’s been less consistent this season compared to last. Inconsistency has marked their current campaign, especially in games against top teams. This makes Tuesday’s first leg against Atletico, a team Real Madrid hasn’t managed to defeat this season, particularly intriguing.
Los Blancos will be well-rested for the match, as manager Carlo Ancelotti rotated his squad in their 2-1 loss to Real Betis on Saturday. The focus will be on Real Madrid’s defense, which might see the return of some key players from injury. They’ll need to contain Atletico’s dangerous attack featuring players like Julian Alvarez, Antoine Griezmann, and Alexander Sorloth. Real Madrid also boasts a formidable attack, and standout performances from players like Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, or Jude Bellingham (in the second leg, as he’s suspended for the first) may be crucial to winning this tie.
Lineups
Real Madrid:
Atletico Madrid:
Prediction
These two sides have enough firepower to score – and enough quality to cancel out the other’s efforts. Expect a closely contested battle in arguably the most anticipated Champions League game of the week, especially after two 1-1 draws in La Liga play this season. Pick: Real Madrid 1, Atletico Madrid 1
