Atlético de Madrid had a great weekend thanks to their victory against Real Mallorca and the defeat Real Madrid suffered against Espanyol. Because of this, the colchoneros have closed in on their neighbor at the top of the standings in a week where both will face off at Santiago Bernabéu. The red-and-white team had suffered a small setback in LaLiga after losing in Leganés and not getting past a draw against a simply complicated Villarreal.
Obviously, almost all eyes are on this new Madrid classic that will be played on Saturday starting at 9:00 PM. However, tomorrow night there's another equally or more important match, as Getafe visits the Metropolitano to play the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey. Although José Bordalás himself has stated that they have little chance of advancing, everything points to it being a very demanding commitment.
New absence against Real Madrid
The bad news in the last victory against Real Mallorca is that one of the three players who were on the verge of suspension saw the yellow card and will miss the match. It is Robin Le Normand, who has started 2025 at a great level and who was once again a starter in defense against the Balearic team. Jan Oblak barely had any work in this match, although there were certain moments where Jagoba Arrasate's team threatened the red-and-white area.
The positive part is that Simeone will have a rested Josema Giménez and a Clement Lenglet who continues to be one of the great surprises of the season. Both are expected to form the central pair to visit Santiago Bernabéu, although before that matchday there's another important challenge. Getafe visits the colchonero team with the aim of making things difficult and being able to qualify for the semifinals of the Copa del Rey.
A very tough tie
At Atlético de Madrid, they are clear that, despite being the favorites, it's never pleasant to face José Bordalás's Getafe, a demanding opponent. It was already demonstrated in the match they played in the first round of LaLiga, in which only a goal by Alexander Sorloth could break the tie on the scoreboard. Additionally, the azulón team has strengthened in this winter market with the arrival of Juanmi, who was already a starter against Sevilla.
Evidently, the home field factor will be very important, as it is still a single-match tie that will be played at the colchonero stronghold. Surely, there will be some changes in Simeone's line-up compared to the last match, with Rodrigo de Paul and Antoine Griezmann possibly returning. The Argentine was suspended against Real Mallorca and the Frenchman would come on in the second half to seal the match in stoppage time.