Atlético Madrid are just five matches away from breaking Real Madrid and Barcelona's title monopoly. Five more victories would see Los Colchoneros claim their first title since 1996 ... so no pressure.
Atlético Madrid vs. Elche: Preview, TV schedule and how to watch online
With Real Madrid idle, Atlético have the chance to open up a six-point lead in the title race with a win over Elche.
Diego Simeone and his players have been dealing with pressure for weeks, so while it’s inevitable that things will get even more stressful as the end of the season approaches, Atléti seem primed to deal with it. They are unbeaten in 11 matches, winners of seven straight matches, so what’s another five right?
Diego Costa should be available after cutting his leg in a collision with the goal post last week, but should he be unable to play, Atléti at least have experience dealing with missing their leading scorer.
Elche remain in the relegation battle, but at least they’re on the safe side of the line with a four-point cushion between themselves and 18th place. Elche have benefited from the teams behind them not playing well, so while they would much prefer to get some more points to secure safety, a loss against Atléti wouldn’t be the end of the world.
Atlético Madrid injuries and suspensions
In doubt: Diego Costa (wound), Arda Turan (groin)
Elche injuries and suspensions
Out: Edu Albacar (unspecified), Manu del Moral (hamstring), Domingo Cisma (suspended)
Atléti striker Diego Costa is expected to be available despite cutting his leg last week after colliding with the goal post. Arda Turan is still dealing with a groin problem, but he has been training and could be available. Elche will be without both their regular left backs with Albacar injured and Cisma suspended, so Mantécon will likely start in their place.
Projected lineups
Atlético Madrid: Thibaut Courtois, Juanfran, João Miranda, Diego Godín, Filipe Luis, Gabi, Mario Suárez, Raúl García, Koke, David Villa, Diego Costa
Elche: Manu Herrera, Damián Suárez, Alberto Botía, Sergio Pelegrin, Sergio Mantecón, Carlos Sánchez, Rubén Pérez, Coro, Javi Márquez, Fidel, Cristian Herrera
Match Date/Time: 8:30 p.m. local, 2:30 p.m. ET
Venue: Estadio Vicente Calderón, Madrid, Spain
TV: beIN Sports USA (U.S. - English), beIN Sports en Español (U.S. - Spanish), Sky Sports 3 (U.K.), beIN Sports Canada (Canada), Canal+ Liga, GOL T (Spain)
Online: beIN Sports Play (U.S.), benIN Sports Play (Canada), Gol Stadium (Spain)
See More:
