Real Madrid will host the second leg of a nervy madrileño derby in the Champions League quarterfinal on Wednesday. They were held to a goalless draw away at their cross-town rivals Atlético, and will now be hoping that they can use the raucous atmosphere of the Bernabéu to their advantage here. Of course, that comes with a risk -- their failure to net an away goal at the Calderón means they could be in trouble if they concede.
Real Madrid vs. Atlético Madrid, Champions League 2015: Start time, TV schedule and team news
Who will break the deadlock in Madrid?
Both of these sides head into this game in pretty good form. Carlo Ancelotti’s Merengues bounced back from a patchy April by going unbeaten in their last five, also moving within two points of La Liga leaders Barcelona. Atléti, meanwhile, haven’t lost since February, though Diego Simeone’s side no longer stand a realistic chance of defending the Spanish domestic crown they seized last season.
Key player - Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)
Atlético Madrid are probably the best defensive team left in the competition, which can mean even some of the finest attacking sides on the planet struggle to break them down. This game could therefore be decided by a singular moment of brilliance, and there’s no doubting who’s most likely to provide it. Cristiano Ronaldo has now scored a ridiculous 50 goals this season, and he could well add to his tally here.
Key Matchup - Atlético Madrid's counter vs. Real Madrid's defence
In this game, Atléti are going to be happy to let Real Madrid control the ball. Diego Simeone’s side have mastered deep defending, in which intense pressing is only triggered by the opponent crossing the halfway line. It’s a brilliant strategy for keeping clean sheets, but precise positioning and tireless running is required to make it work on the attack. If they can get their counter working, they’re in with a great chance.
Real Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: Karim Benzema (knee), Marcelo (suspended), Luka Modrić (knee). In doubt: Gareth Bale (calf).
Atlético Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: Mario Suárez (suspended). In doubt: None.
Match Date/Time: Tuesday, 2:45 p.m. ET, 8:45 p.m. local
Venue: Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid, Spain
TV: Fox Sports 1 (U.S. - English), Fox Deportes (U.S. - Spanish), Sportsnet regional networks (Canada), Sky (U.K.), Movistar TV Fútbol, C+ Liga de Campeones / HD (Spain)
Online: Fox Soccer 2Go, Fox Sports GO (U.S.), Sportsnet World Now (Canada), Sky Go (U.K.)
See More:
