Madrid derby preview: Real host Atletico at Bernabeu
The first Madrid derby of 2018 is set to take place at the Santiago Bernabeu. Real Madrid host noisy neighbours Atletico Madrid in the much-awaited contest. Both teams are in red-hot form and this fixture should make for some exciting football. Even though, the Madrid derby will not decide which team will win La Liga but there is still plenty at stake.
Madrid derby takes centre stage in La Liga
Real Madrid head into the fixture having trashed Juventus 3-0 in the Champions League. Zidane's men have won their last 4 matches in La Liga and are placed third on the table, four points behind their opponents. Neither side can beat Barcelona to claim the top spot but it's all going to be about the bragging rights as pride is on the line.
The fight for second spot in La Liga
Atletico have lost two of their last four league games. However, a victory against Sporting in the Europa League quarter-final on Thursday should boost their confidence. Atletico are the favourites to win the Europa League while their neighbours Real Madrid are the favourites to defend the Champions League.
Will Zidane get luck the third time?
Zidane hasn't managed to beat Atletico Madrid in La Liga at the Santiago Bernabeu. The match on Sunday marks his third attempt to beat Real's neighbours. Last year, Real had lost 1-0 and then were held to a 1-1 draw.
Title out of reach, but pride at stake
As far as injuries as concerned Nacho will be on the sidelines for Real Madrid. Apart from him, Real have a full-strength squad at their disposal as they have no suspensions. Defenders Filipe Luis and Jose Maria Gimenez will be sitting this one out for Atletico due to injuries. The Rojiblancos will be boosted by the return of Juanfran and Sime Vrsaljko.
Real Madrid probable XI
Goalkeeper: Keylor Navas; Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Raphael Varane, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo Vieira; Midfielders: Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, Toni Kroos; Forwards: Marco Asensio, Gareth Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo
Atletico Madrid probable XI
Goalkeeper: Jan Oblak; Defenders: Juanfran, Diego Godin, Stefan Savic, Lucas Hernandez; Midfielders: Saul Niguez, Gabi, Koke; Forwards: Angel Correa, Antoine Griezmann, Diego Costa
