Atletico Madrid will have the chance to create history when they will host Real Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League at the Vicente Calderon. No other team has ever overturned a three-goal deficit in the semi-final and the odds are also against Diego Simeone’s boys. But if they take their chances against a not so good defensively Madrid, things could be different.
In the last few years, Atleti dominated the European circuit and it is the third time in the last four seasons that they have reached the semis. Should they lose this match it will be their third loss at the hands of their bitter rivals, the other two being in the Champions League finals.
On the other hand, Real have been in great form both in the domestic and European circuits. They are now a small distance away from successfully defending their title in the Champions League era. One particular Cristiano Ronaldo has been in tremendous form as the Portuguese star has guided his team to this stage by netting two hat-tricks in his last two Champions League games.
Team News and Predicted Lineup
Real Madrid
Los Blancos fielded a second string side in the last match of the La Liga but had no difficulties as they comfortably secured a 4-0 win over Granada. All the big stars will be returning and Zidane will have a fully fit squad. Gareth Bale is nursing an injury and Isco is likely to replace him in the starting lineup. Dani Carvajal left the field against Atleti with a hamstring problem as Nacho Fernandez replaced him. Nacho will again be called to fill in his shoes.
Navas; Nacho, Varane, Ramos, Marcelo; Kroos, Casemiro, Modric; Isco, Benzema, Ronaldo
Atletico Madrid
The Spanish giants will be without their stalwarts in defence Sime Vrsaljko, Juanfran and Jose Gimenez.
Oblak; Lucas, Godin, Savic, Luis; Gabi, Koke, Saul; Carrasco, Gameiro, Griezmann
Key Players
Real Madrid
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo has had an outstanding season so far and he will be looking forward to finishing it on a positive note. The Portuguese superstar has scored more goals in the Champions League knockout stage than in the group stage. The 32-year-old loves to perform in these crunch games and we have seen earlier what he is capable of.
Atletico Madrid
Antoine Griezmann
If Atleti are to push for a win, Griezmann needs to have a solid start. The French forward had a rare off day against Real but could be dangerous if Los Blancos defenders become very complacent.
