Real Madrid Faces Tough Balancing Act Ahead of La Liga Derby
How will Real Madrid juggle a week with two of the biggest games so far this season while facing an injury crisis?
On February 8, Real Madrid will face Atletico Madrid in a Madrid derby that could be pivotal in the race for the La Liga title. Both teams are currently separated by just one point atop the league table. However, they also find themselves at a crucial point in Champions League play, facing Manchester City just days after the derby.
Injury Concerns
Real Madrid is grappling with an injury crisis. Key players like David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, and Eder Militao are sidelined, and Antonio Rudiger may not participate due to a hamstring injury. Consequently, manager Carlo Ancelotti has turned to academy graduate Raul Asencio and midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni as starting central defenders, with Fede Valverde also needed at right back.
Ancelotti knows the importance of maintaining a solid squad for both critical matches but with a limited selection due to injuries, he must carefully plan the lineup.
Ancelotti’s Remarks
“It’s a very important match for two teams fighting to win the league. The (Madrid) derby is a special match, as always. Atlético are strong, and it’ll be an even match. The opposition have all the quality they need to fight for this competition, just like us,” Ancelotti stated.
“We had some doubts regarding the lineup that have been resolved today with the issue of Lucas and Camavinga. I’m going to field a lineup where I can combine quality and collective commitment.”
Predicted Lineups
Real Madrid: Thiabut Courtois, Francisco Garcia, Raul Asencio, Aurelien Tchouameni, Lucas Vazquez, Luka Modric, Dani Cebellow, Jude Bellingham, Vinicus Junior, Brahim Diaz, Kylian Mbappe
Atletico Madrid: Jan Oblak, Javi Galan, Clement Lenglet, Jose Giminez, Nahuel Molina, Conor Gallagher, Pablo Barrios, Rodrigo De Paul, Giuliano Simione, Julian Alvarez, Antoine Griezmann
The focus remains on how well Ancelotti can manage his squad’s fatigue and injuries to come through both crucial matches.
How to Watch
- Date: February 8, 2025
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain
- Live stream: ESPN+
- Odds: Real Madrid -110; Draw +270; Atletico Madrid +280
