
🏟️ The Madrid Derby: More Than Just a Game
🔥 Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid playing xi. The Madrid derby always carries extra weight. When Atletico Madrid meet Real Madrid, it’s not only about La Liga points but also city bragging rights. With both sides fielding star-studded lineups, this edition promises intensity, drama, and tactical chess.

📋 Real Madrid Starting XI (4-2-3-1)
Manager: Xabi Alonso
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Courtois (GK)
Carvajal Militao Huijsen Carreras
Tchouaméni Valverde
Güler Bellingham Vinícius Jr
Mbappé
Key Notes:
- Alonso opts for balance with Tchouaméni and Valverde in midfield providing both defensive cover and distribution.
- Bellingham returns in an advanced role, supporting the attack.
- Mbappé leads the line, flanked by Vinícius Jr on the left and Güler on the right.
📋 Atletico Madrid Starting XI (4-4-2) – To Be Confirmed
Manager: Diego Simeone
Formation: 4-4-2
Oblak (GK)
Llorente Le Normand Lenglet Hancko
Giuliano Koke Barrios Nico
Griezmann Álvarez
Key Notes:
- Simeone sticks with his traditional 4-4-2, aiming for compact defense and fast transitions.
- Griezmann partners Álvarez in attack, combining creativity and finishing power.
- Midfield relies on Koke and Barrios for defensive discipline and ball recovery.
📊 Key Match Stats
Category | Atletico Madrid | Real Madrid |
---|---|---|
Head-to-Head Wins (last 71) | 15 | 33 |
Draws | 23 | 23 |
Goals Scored (H2H) | ~65 | ~85 |
Average Goals per Derby | 2.75 | 2.75 |
BTTS (Both Teams to Score) | 59% | 59% |
Clean Sheet Rate | 22% | 28% |
Top Scorer (2025/26 so far) | Julián Álvarez (3 goals) | Kylian Mbappé (7 goals) |
🔑 Tactical Battles
- Mbappé vs Le Normand & Lenglet
- Real Madrid’s speed against Atletico’s defensive wall.
- Midfield Engine: Bellingham vs Koke & Barrios
- Creativity vs discipline in the center of the pitch.
- Vinícius Jr vs Llorente
- Atletico’s converted full-back will have to contain Real’s most explosive winger.
- Griezmann & Álvarez vs Militão & Huijsen
- Atletico’s strike duo testing Real’s relatively young central defense.
🔮 Prediction
With their attacking depth and perfect form, Real Madrid enter as favorites. However, Atletico’s compact style and home advantage could keep this tight.
Predicted Score: Atletico Madrid 1–2 Real Madrid
🙋 FAQs
Q1: What formation is Real Madrid using?
A: Real Madrid are lining up in a 4-2-3-1 with Mbappé as striker.
Q2: What formation is Atletico Madrid expected to use?
A: Atletico are sticking with 4-4-2, their traditional system.
Q3: Who is Atletico Madrid’s key attacker?
A: Julián Álvarez, who has already scored 3 goals this season.
Q4: Who leads Real Madrid’s frontline?
A: Kylian Mbappé, supported by Vinícius Jr, Bellingham, and Güler.
Q5: Which midfield battle will decide the game?
A: Tchouaméni & Valverde vs Koke & Barrios.
Q6: Who is more likely to score first?
A: Based on form, Real Madrid, with Mbappé and Vinícius Jr as primary threats.
✅ Conclusion
The Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid lineups confirm two very different philosophies.
- Atletico Madrid: defensive resilience, compact midfield, and counter-attacks.
- Real Madrid: possession dominance, dynamic wide play, and Mbappé’s cutting edge.
This clash could shape the direction of the La Liga title race early in the season. Expect a fiery, intense, and high-quality derby.
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