Madrid Derby – A Clash of Titans in the Champions League Round of 16
The Madrid Derby, or the match between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, is always a major highlight in the world of football. On March 5, 2025, the two teams will face off once again in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Head-to-Head Record in European Competitions
Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid have met several times in European competitions, especially in the UEFA Champions League. Their last five encounters have been tightly contested:
- February 8, 2025: Real Madrid 1–1 Atlético Madrid
- February 4, 2024: Real Madrid 1–1 Atlético Madrid
- September 24, 2023: Atlético Madrid 3–1 Real Madrid
- February 25, 2023: Real Madrid 1–1 Atlético Madrid
- September 18, 2022: Atlético Madrid 1–2 Real Madrid
This record highlights the frequency of draws in their recent meetings.
In the 2024-25 season, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid have already faced each other twice in La Liga, with both matches ending in a 1-1 draw. Overall, in 238 encounters across all competitions, Real Madrid leads with 116 wins, while Atlético Madrid has secured 59 victories, and 63 matches have ended in a draw.
Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid has shown strong form in domestic competitions, recently securing a victory over Athletic Bilbao and trailing league leaders Barcelona by just one point.
Key Players
Real Madrid:
The absence of Jude Bellingham due to suspension presents a challenge, but the return of Federico Valverde provides a much-needed boost.
Atlético Madrid:
Marcos Llorente has been a versatile asset for the team, excelling in multiple positions and making significant contributions both in attack and defense.
This match is expected to be highly competitive, given the history between these two teams in European competitions. Real Madrid, with its rich experience and legacy in the Champions League, will aim to capitalize on home advantage. Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid, known for its solid defense and quick counter-attacks, will look to score an away goal as an advantage for the second leg.
Overall, the Madrid Derby in the Champions League always delivers drama and intense moments. Football fans worldwide will be eagerly awaiting this thrilling clash to see who comes out on top.
Match Information
- Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
- Time: 03:00 AM WIB
- Venue: Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- Live Broadcast: MOJI and SCTV
Predicted Lineups and Formations
Note: The official starting lineups will be announced before the match. The following is a predicted lineup based on the latest information.
Real Madrid (4-2-3-1 Formation)
- Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
- Defenders:
- Left: Ferland Mendy
- Center: Antonio Rüdiger
- Center: David Alaba
- Right: Federico Valverde
- Defensive Midfielders:
- Luka Modric
- Aurelien Tchouameni
- Attacking Midfielders:
- Left: Vinicius Junior
- Center: Brahim Diaz
- Right: Rodrygo
- Striker: Kylian Mbappé
Note: Jude Bellingham is absent due to yellow card accumulation.
Atlético Madrid (4-4-2 Formation)
- Goalkeeper: Jan Oblak
- Defenders:
- Left: Javi Galán
- Center: José María Giménez
- Center: Robin Le Normand
- Right: Nahuel Molina
- Midfielders:
- Left: Samuel Lino
- Center: Pablo Barrios
- Center: Rodrigo De Paul
- Right: Marcos Llorente
- Forwards:
- Antoine Griezmann
- Julian Alvarez
Note: Koke has been ruled out for this match.
With the intensity of their rivalry and both teams' current form, this match is expected to be a thrilling battle. Football fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the action from these two Madrid giants.