The highly anticipated clash between Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid in the Champions League round of 16 has caused all kinds of analyses and predictions. However, one of the most awaited opinions was that of Julio Maldonado "Maldini," who has surprised with his assessment of the tie.
Despite the great moment Diego Simeone's team is experiencing, the Movistar analyst believes that the Whites have a slight advantage to advance to the next phase.
Maldini Analyzes the Clash: "It'll Be Very Even, but I See Real Madrid as Favorites"
In his traditional pre-match analysis of major games, Maldini made it clear that he expects a very even match between both teams. The journalist highlighted Atlético de Madrid's ability to compete against Real Madrid and recalled that they have already demonstrated this in previous encounters this season.
"Simeone's Atlético de Madrid is capable of pushing Real Madrid to the limit. They demonstrated it in the two league matches they played this year and showed it in the last match with that 1-1 draw at Bernabéu," he stated.
For Maldini, Atlético de Madrid has great defensive solidity that could put the Merengues in trouble, although he acknowledges that Carlo Ancelotti's team is superior in attack.
The Keys to the Tie According to Maldini
The analyst also pointed out two factors that could be decisive for the development of the tie and could balance the forces between both teams. One of them is the absence of Jude Bellingham in the first leg. The English midfielder, a key piece for Real Madrid this season, will miss the first match at Bernabéu, something that could benefit Atlético.
The second is the return match at Metropolitano. Having the support of their fans in the decisive clash is an advantage for Simeone's team, which usually becomes strong in their stadium on European nights.