Real Madrid faces a daunting task in the second round of the UEFA Champions League as they take on their city-rivals Atlético Madrid in the second of the competition.
Los Blancos are on course to win their sixteenth title after knocking out Manchester City in the playoffs over two legs.
While Real Madrid are favorites to win the competition and the tie, Diego Simeone’s side, being seasoned campaigners, are no pushovers.
Atletico Madrid have been impressive this season across all competitions and are currently in the race to win the La Liga.
The last meeting between the two sides ended in a one-all draw at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Ahead of the blockbuster clash on Tuesday and the return fixture, Atletico Madrid are in position to create an upset and can capitalise on Real Madrid’s frailties.
This post examines three reasons Atletico Madrid can knock out the defending champions.
1. Shaky Defense
Real Madrid’s defense has been quite shaky this season with Aurelien Tchouameni and Raul Asencio as make-shift defenders for the defending champions. Real Madrid have conceded 15 goals this season in the Champions League as they face the Rojiblacos on Tuesday. The return of Antonio Rudiger didn’t stop Los Blancos from conceding twice as they fell to a 2-1 loss to Real Betis.
2. Julian Alvarez Factor
The Argentine striker has been in a rich vein of form for the past few weeks. He poses a big threat to Real Madrid’s poor defensive frailties. Julian Alvarez scored in the one-all draw when the two sides met in last month. Alvarez has six goals in 10 Champions League matches this season and will look to add to his tally when in both fixtures.
3. Atletico’s Tactical Discipline
Diego Simeone’s side are known for being solid at the back and with a compact style of play. Atletico Madrid have the best defense in the La Liga this season. The Rojiblancos have the fewest goals conceded in the league this season – 16. Robin Le Normand, Clément Lenglet, José María Giménez and Axel Witsel have featured as center-backs this season and have been quite decent. Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo will have to double their efforts to bridge the wall these men will create on Tuesday night.
