The 2024/25 La Liga season is heating up, and the first derby of the season is upon us. Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid are set to lock horns at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium in a crucial encounter that could shape the title race. Both teams are vying to keep pace with early leaders Barcelona, making this matchup a must-win.

The 237th edition of El Derbi Madrileño presents an intriguing matchup, with Atlético Madrid seeking to build on their 3-1 win in the corresponding fixture last term. Los Colchoneros have lost only one of their last nine competitive home games, scoring at least twice in three of their four matches this season. Atlético Madrid, fresh from their 1-0 win over Celta Vigo on Thursday, finds themselves two points behind their city rivals going into this match. However, Diego Simeone’s side can draw confidence from their impressive home record, having started well at the Metropolitano and yet to concede in La Liga fixtures this term. Real Madrid, on the other hand, surged to a 3-2 win over Alavés on Tuesday but had to endure a nervy finish after conceding twice late in the game. Manager Carlo Ancelotti was pleased with his team’s performance, praising their improvement and unbeaten La Liga record.

Real Madrid’s recent record at the Metropolitano is a concern, having won just one of their last six visits. The reigning La Liga champions have struggled at this venue, with their most recent league loss coming here. Atlético’s Julián Alvarez knows the thrill of beating Real Madrid, having scored in a 4-0 win for Manchester City in May 2023. His last four club goals have all arrived after the 80th minute, making him a potential game-changer. Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé faces time on the sidelines with a thigh injury, dealing a significant blow to their attacking prowess. Rodrygo could take on extra attacking duties, having contributed to one goal in each of Madrid’s last three games. Only one of the last 11 H2Hs was goalless at half-time, suggesting an exciting and action-packed encounter. Diego Simeone’s tactical acumen will be crucial in nullifying Real Madrid’s attacking threats. Atlético’s defensive solidity at home will face a stern test against Los Blancos’ potent attack. Carlo Ancelotti will likely adjust his strategy to compensate for Mbappé’s absence, potentially relying on Rodrygo’s creativity and goal-scoring ability.

Will Atlético Madrid’s strong home record prevail, or can Real Madrid overcome their recent struggles at the Metropolitano? The 237th edition of El Derbi Madrileño promises to be an unforgettable encounter. El Derbi Madrileño is one of the most fiercely contested derbies in world football. The two teams have a long and complex history, with Atlético Madrid often seen as the underdog. However, in recent years, Atlético has challenged Real Madrid’s dominance, winning several high-profile matches. The corresponding fixture last season saw Atlético emerge victorious, and they will look to repeat that performance. Another key battle will be between Atlético’s Koke and Real Madrid’s Luka Modrić. The two midfield maestros will vie for control, with Koke’s tenacity and Modrić’s creativity on full display. A closely contested 2-1 win for Real Madrid is a plausible outcome, but the beauty of El Derbi Madrileño lies in its unpredictability. One thing is certain – this matchup will be an unforgettable encounter.

The world will be watching as Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid clash in the 237th edition of El Derbi Madrileño. The stakes are high, the tension is palpable, and the football promises to be exhilarating. Get ready for an unforgettable encounter.

Best tip: Over 1.5

Correct score: 1-1