Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid
La Liga
Sunday
24th September 2023
Wanda Metropolitano
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of game week 6 of the La Liga fixture between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.
Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid: Preview
Atletico Madrid form analysis
Atleti began the La Liga season with a solid 3-1 home win against Granada, with goals from Morata and Depay sealing the victory after going behind. They followed that up with a dull 0-0 draw away at Real Betis, failing to create many chances. Atletico’s attack then exploded into life in a 7-0 thrashing of Rayo Vallecano, highlighted by hat-tricks from Morata and Correa.
However, Atletico’s defensive problems surfaced again in a dismal 3-0 defeat away at Valencia in their last match. Hugo Duro grabbed a brace as Atletico’s defense was ripped apart on the counter-attack.
Overall, Atletico have showcased their attacking potential, with the likes of Morata, Griezmann and Depay impressing. But Simeone’s normally solid defense has looked unusually vulnerable so far.
Resolving these defensive issues will be crucial if Atletico are to challenge for major honors. Going forward they have appeared capable of scoring against any opponent when on form. However, they have struggled to break down defensive teams at times.
Real Madrid form analysis
Real Madrid have made an unbeaten but inconsistent start to the La Liga season. They opened with a 3-1 win away at Almeria thanks to a Bellingham brace, but struggled defensively at times. A scrappy 1-0 victory away at Celta Vigo followed, with Bellingham again netting the winner late on.
Madrid’s defensive issues returned in a tense 2-1 home win over Getafe, requiring another late Bellingham goal after going behind. They again had to come from behind in their last league game, beating Real Sociedad 2-1 at home with goals from Valverde and Bellingham. Most recently, Madrid edged past Union Berlin 1-0 in the Champions League through another late Bellingham strike.
Overall, Real have struggled to hit top form but shown resilience to grind out results. Bellingham has been the standout performer so far with his late goals. Vinícius Jr has underwhelmed while the defense lacks its previous solidity. Madrid have often started slowly before rallying late on. Carlo Ancelotti needs to improve intensity from the outset and tighten up defensively. However, winning games without playing at their peak shows Madrid’s qualities.
