Real Madrid faces its crosstown rival in what is becoming a rivalry to watch. Years ago, Real Madrid was basically unstoppable against Atletico, but the past few seasons have seen Los Colchoneros take over the competition.

That said, Real Madrid, despite only winning one of 10 against Atletico over the last 10 years, is still more than capable of winning the Champions League title for the 11th time in history. Here are some reasons why.

Zidane Effect

Ever since Zinedine Zidane arrived to coach Los Blancos, the team has improved tremendously, putting up a record of 17 wins, one loss and two draws in La Liga while winning four Champions League tilts of a possible six.

This team has transformed from a team lacking in a dynamic offensive plan to one with thrust and direction, a more precise offensive game and a solid defensive foundation.

More importantly, Zidane has known how and when to alter direction in strategy, as evidenced in his brilliant display against Barcelona. Los Blancos were reeling in that match, looking ever close to capitulating at the Camp Nou.

But they managed to get out of the first half tied 0-0. The second half saw a far more aggressive side containing Barcelona's attack, pressuring high in the offensive zone, cutting out passing lanes and destroying on the fast break the other way. In other words? This team can play the slow possession build-up, a more direct possession game and a supreme counter attack as needed.

Moreover, Zidane has brought out the best in his players as Cristiano Ronaldo has been a more lethal player under the Frenchman. Gareth Bale has continued his solid display from earlier in the year and the team's midfield has never looked better.

The BBC

Word out of training this week was the Cristiano Ronaldo is struggling with injury, but he is still likely to play.

Atletico can choose to approach the game in two ways regardless of Ronaldo's injury. If Diego Simeone deems that Ronaldo will not be a threat than he will opt to put greater emphasis on Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale, leaving the 50-goal scorer alone on his own for most of the game. If he wants to shut down Ronaldo, then that will mean that Bale and Benzema are freer in the offensive end.

Zidane can of course deploy Ronaldo as a decoy throughout as well if the situation is grave, not forcing the superstar to do too much, but still allowing him ample opportunity to succeed moving forward.

When all is said an done however, this team's offensive weapons are loaded. Bale has turned into a big game player; Benzema has had his best La Liga output and Ronaldo remains a lethal weapon despite injuries.

Bale scored the winner two years ago in Lisbon and had a number of chances to end the game earlier. He is far more lethal and decisive now and if he gets those same opportunities, he will make Atletico pay.

Deep Bench

Zidane will go with a 4-3-3 but the big question is which player he employs in the midfield. Will it be Isco or Casemiro? The former is great in tight space and a concrete passer that can break Atletico's concise defensive wall. The latter is a strong midfield destroyer that provides a solid layer of defense. However, Casemiro is not a great passer under pressure and is not going to help break down Atletico's defense with his play.

Zidane also has the option of James Rodriguez, arguably the best passer on the team with pinpoint offensive precision and a tremendous offensive ability that can destabilize with ease. He is likely not going to get much time in this game unless the situation becomes dire, but this all points to one thing - Zidane is not at a loss for options to change the game.

He can attack Atletico in a variety of ways because he has a diverse bench of players at his disposal ready to alter the side's approach at a moment's notice.

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