There is no middle ground in a Madrid Derby, you either win or you regret. This Saturday, Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid step onto the pitch at Santiago Bernabéu knowing that much more than three points are at stake.
Follow Playing for 90 on X (Twitter).
The winner will take not only the city's bragging rights but also the lead in La Liga 2024/25, with one point separating the sides in the table. On one side, Real Madrid's lethal attack boasts 50 goals in the competition so far this season. On the other, Atlético de Madrid's rock-solid defense has let in just 14 goals in 22 matches. This isn't just another game; it is a battle where every mistake could be costly.
Real Madrid: talent, commitment, and the search for balance
Carlo Ancelotti is aware that despite his team's good campaign, Real Madrid still has something to prove in big matches. The coach was clear that his squad has shown more talent than commitment, and that needs to change if they want to secure a win against a team as disciplined and structured as Atlético.
"A clásico is always special, and this one against a powerful opponent with an exceptional season in course, and it is going to be equal, disputed, and very tight. The usual, no new developments ahead of the derby."
The good news for Ancelotti is that both Lucas Vázquez and Camavinga return from injury to join his selection options. The former is expected to go straight into the starting lineup at right-back, while Camavinga's position remains open to question. But the key for Real Madrid isn't just about choosing the right starting XI-it's about fixing the team's mentality.
"Without quality, there’s no success. And without commitment, there’s no success either. The key is to combine both. Maybe this year, we’ve had more quality than commitment. We’re working to balance that out."
That statement reveals a vulnerability. Real Madrid has been relying too much on its offensive brilliance, but against a well-drilled, compact team like Atlético, that may not be enough.
It means, he says, that the defense has to organize itself better, the forwards must help without the ball. "Our front four have scored around 60 goals — quite a lot. But defensive solidity isn't just about defensive positioning, where we are in an 'emergency,' but also about collective effort. Those front four, who have scored over 60 goals and have been fantastic offensively… they must understand that the team also needs their help on the defensive side."
Atlético de Madrid: strategy must be spotless
Atlético de Madrid will enter the Madrid Derby with only one aim-to silence the Bernabéu and take first place. The Colchoneros know that with an iron-clad defense, they cannot give Real Madrid even an inch of space in the opening minutes of the match. Simeone has already started to shape his team for the clash. Perhaps the big surprise in midfield could be Koke replacing Barrios, one of the regular starters this season.
Simeone made it crystal clear: "I'm focused on the game. You have to have answers for what presents itself during big matches."
This Argentine manager definitely knows Real Madrid will come out pressing hard-a factor that can easily dictate how the game pans out. On the off chance that Atlético manages to shrug off the storm and-most importantly-turn their defensive discipline into lethal counterattacks, they can comfortably walk away with three points.
"The opponent is going to come out with great intensity and resolution to start the match, and we'll have to take the game to where we believe we need it to be."
That means Atlético can’t just sit back and absorb pressure. They need to control the pace, disrupt Real’s rhythm, and exploit gaps on the counter. "We know we’re facing a team with great individual talents, and that makes them extremely dangerous."