It’s once again time for the big one. Milan’s San Siro will play host to the biggest and best match domestic football has to offer: the Champions League final. For the second time in three seasons the game is a Madrilenian derby, with record 10-time winners Real Madrid facing off against their cross-town rivals Atlético, who have twice finished as runners-up but never won this tournament. It is certain to be a thoroughly exciting contest.
Real Madrid vs. Atlético Madrid 2016: Time, TV schedule and team news for Champions League final
Real Madrid take on their cross-town rivals Atléti in Saturday’s Champions League final.
When they met in in the 2014 final in Lisbon, Real Madrid ran out 4-1 winners. But to say the scoreline doesn’t tell the whole story would be an understatement. The game was an exceptionally close contest, with Atléti taking a first-half lead and holding it until the 93rd minute. Sergio Ramos’ equalizer took the wind out of their sails, and Real netted thrice in extra time to complete La Décima. You can bet Atléti will be fired up and out for revenge.
Key matchup: Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Diego Godín
These two players are perfect embodiments of their respective side’s style. Real Madrid winger Ronaldo is explosive: quick, powerful and devastating on the counter attack. Godín, Atléti’s captain and a dominant center half, is brave, strong and an outstanding defensive organizer. Though not direct opponents, these two players are sure to go up against each other frequently throughout the match; whoever wins the battle could win the war.
Recent history
Recent games between these sides have been predictably tight. Two of their last four meetings have ended tied at 1-1, while the other two have been 1-0 wins for Atléti and Real respectively. There’s every reason to believe that this final will be as cagey and closely matched as the last time these sides met on this biggest of stages. It should once again go right down to the wire.
Real Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: Raphaël Varane (thigh). In doubt: Álvaro Arbeloa (knee).
Atlético Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: None. In doubt: Diego Godín (thigh).
The game's only certain absentee is Real's young center back Varane, who is sidelined with a thigh injury and will miss the upcoming European Championships. Fullback Arbeloa has been struggling with a knee problem, and could also miss out. Ronaldo limped out of training after a collision with Dani Carvajal earlier in the week, though he should be fit to play.
Atléti are likely to have a full-strength team available, with defensive rock Godín expected to make a full recovery from a thigh injury in time for kickoff.
Match date/time: Saturday, May 28, 2:45 p.m. ET, 8:45 p.m. local
Venue: San Siro, Milan, Italy
TV: FOX (US - English); ESPN Deportes (US - Spanish); TSN, beIN Sports (Canada); BT Sport Europe (UK)
Online: Fox Soccer 2GO, WatchESPN (US); TSN live streaming, beIN Sports Connect (Canada); BT Sport live streaming (UK)
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