Atlético de Madrid is just hours away from experiencing a match they've marked in red on their calendar, seeking to advance in the Champions League. The fans welcomed the first team at the hotel yesterday, giving them all their support with flares and chants. It was something that hadn't been seen for a while and demonstrates the importance of tonight's clash against Real Madrid.
In the colchonero team, everything was good news, as Simeone will have the entire squad at his disposal to face their eternal rival. Worse news comes from Santiago Bernabéu, as Carlo Ancelotti could suffer a very sensitive last-minute loss for his interests. The Madrid team had delayed the publication of their squad list due to this setback and have now caused a lot of expectation.
Kylian Mbappé Attracts All the Attention
The French forward trained yesterday in the gym and then on the field, as he suffers from an overload caused against Rayo Vallecano. He already missed the Copa del Rey clash against Real Sociedad due to a dental problem, making it a complicated few weeks. This very morning, he went to Valdebebas to undergo medical tests and find out if he can be available at the Metropolitano.
Obviously, Kylian Mbappé is expected to start against Atlético de Madrid if he's at 100%, but it's not certain as seen in yesterday's session. Injuries have hit Real Madrid hard this season, with both Thibaut Courtois and Rüdiger resting last weekend. The fact that the French international is not at his best level is good news for the rojiblancos, as they know their rival's plan perfectly.
Simeone's Roadmap
Carlo Ancelotti's planning is expected to be very similar to the duel at Santiago Bernabéu, waiting back and looking for counterattacks. In this strategy, both Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius are key, as they will try to exploit the center-backs' backs with their speed. Meanwhile, Atlético de Madrid is going to experience one of the best nights in its history, beyond what the result reflects after 90 minutes.
A mosaic of 70,000 cards is expected, and the colchonero stronghold will be a true cauldron to reach the quarterfinals. Yesterday, the first surprise already occurred, as PSG eliminated Liverpool away in the penalty shootout. In the next round, Arsenal awaits, having thrashed PSV as a visitor and would be the opponent of the club that manages to emerge victorious from the tie tonight.