REAL-ATLETICO PREVIEW

                                                   


The Madrid derby has not been this big in almost two decades. Cholo Simeone has revolutionized Los Rojiblancos and they are now a major force in European Football. Fresh from going top of the League for the first time since Radomir Antic led them to the summit 18 years ago, it is time to score yet another victory over their more illustrious neighbours, Real Madrid. It was only fitting that Simeone's men demolished Real Sociedad to go top of the standings on a day they were mourning the loss of a Calderon legend, Luis Aragones-the former Spanish coach who led La Roja to European success in 2008 and the man who is largely responsible for Spain's unprecedented success till this present day. Carlo Ancelotti's Merengues battled out a 1-1 draw at the new San Mames v revitalized Athletic Bilbao. The Basque club have become very compact and competitive since Ernesto Valverde returned to his old stomping ground. Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off in the game but is eligible to take part in Wednesday's semi-final 1st Leg v Atletico Madrid.

The 'Whites' are joint second with Barcelona (3rd on GD) in La Liga after missing the chance to go within one point of new leaders, Atletico. If form is anything to go by, this is set to be one of the most explosive derbies in recent memory. Real will be all out for revenge after losing 1-0 to Atletico earlier in the season. A solitary Diego Costa goal was enough on that occasion but I don't think it will be the case tomorrow.

Carlo Ancelotti has taken Real to greater heights this term. The 21-game unbeaten run they are currently on is the best of his career yet and they don't want it to end anytime soon. They know that tomorrow's match is a must win as it sets the tome for a great game at the Calderon.  It is an all important game for both sides. Madrid can go one better in their unbeaten streak or be condemned to a third straight loss in the hands of their bitter rivals. Something that has never happened before.


REAL MADRID-

San Iker, Arbeloa, Pepe, Ramos, Coentrao, Alonso, Modric, Di Maria, Benz, Bale, CR7

ATLETICO MADRID-

Thibo Courtois, Junafran, Miranda, Godin, Insua, Gabi, Thiago, Diego Ribas, Arda Turan, Adrian, Costa


Los Blancos will look to change a few things tomorrow. Captain Iker Casillas returns between the sticks in a competition that he is yet to concede and keeps breaking records. Alvaro Arbeloa and Fabio Coentrao will get a game in place of Dani and Marcelo. Bale will replace Jese after returning from a foot injury. It is been an injury blighted campaign for the Welsh footballer but he has still managed 10 goals and 8 assists in all competitions. Tough on Jese who has scored his club's last two goals. Alvaro Morata cannot seem to get a game but is almost certain to come from the bench yet again tomorrow. The prodigiously talented attacker can cause havoc even from the subs bench..

CHOLO THE MESSIAH!

As for Simeone's warriors, they will look to continue their rich vein of form v Real Madrid. After defeating them in the Cup final last May, they put them out of their misery in front of 90,000 people at the Bernabeu a few months ago. So far, los Colchoneros are unbeaten in the last five games v Real and Barcelona since May. A phenomenal achievement. My idea of the best manager in the World at the moment, the Argentine Legend has instilled his doggedness and 'never-say-die' attitude in the whole set-up. Whether as a starter or a sub, everyone under his tutelage fight to the last second of each game. Tomorrow will be no different for the new Leaders of the Spanish top division.

David Villa will miss tomorrow's battle after suffering a muscle injury in the win over 'La Real' on Sunday.

CR7 and Diego Costs have scored 57 goals between them this season and will attempt to come out tops for their respective teams come tomorrow night. Another Madrid derby and fans are excited. The first of three mouthwatering clashes between both sides this month  Who else cannot wait?


Ohireime P Eboreime
@ohiskaka1990