Real Madrid vs. Atletico Madrid Champions League Preview, Predictions - Where to Watch
The rivalry returns as Real Madrid and Atletico reconvene in the Champions League.
The two sides will be meeting in this competition for the second straight year; last season, Real Madrid took down Atletico 4-1 in the final thanks to a last-gasp goal from Sergio Ramos.
The game will be set at the Vicente Calderon Stadium, a place of horrific memories for Los Blancos. The last time these teams met on Feb. 7, Los Colchoneros came away with an emphatic 4-0 win that featured a few errors from goalie Iker Casillas.
But the game means more for Los Blancos as they look for their first win against their great rivals. In 2014-15, Atletico has a record of four wins and two draws. But the problems extend further for Real Madrid. Atletico has not conceded a goal against Real in three straight home games.
Since losing the 2013 Copa del Rey final at home against Atletico, Real Madrid has a paltry record of two wins, five losses and three draws.
Moreover, Carlo Ancelotti's men will certainly want revenge on Atletico because their crosstown rivals have eliminated them from two cup competitions this season alone. At the start of the year, Atletico won the Spanish Super Cup and just a few months ago, Atletico knocked Los Blancos out of their Copa del Rey title defense.
The Champions League is the only major trophy that Madrid has complete control over at this point. With Barcelona holding a two-point lead in Spain, Real Madrid cannot guarantee a title. However, the team controls its own destiny in Europe.
Ronaldo has eight goals in the UCL this season and is tied with Messi for most goals in the tournament. There is no doubt that he will be looking to add to his load.
Moreover, Real Madrid is finally healthy with Luka Modric and James Rodriguez back from lengthy injuries. Having them both in the midfield should help in taking down a very physical Atletico side.
Predictions
Real Madrid steals a 2-1 win on the road.
Where to Watch
The game will be available for streaming on Fox Soccer 2 Go.
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