The Daily Star Ireland
The Madrid Derby is back, and once again, it carries all the tension, history, and high drama expected when Atlético Madrid host Real Madrid on September 27, 2025, at the Wanda Metropolitano. This fixture has always been about more than just three points—it’s about pride, dominance, and bragging rights in Spain’s capital.
Atlético’s Mixed Start and Injury Concerns
Under Diego Simeone’s trademark gritty leadership, Atlético Madrid have endured a stuttering start to their LaLiga campaign. With just five points from their first four matches, inconsistency has plagued their performances. Their recent 2-0 triumph over Villarreal hinted at what they can achieve when their intensity clicks, but results overall show a side still searching for rhythm.
A major setback is the absence of summer signing Thiago Almada. The Argentine playmaker, who has quickly become pivotal in Atlético’s midfield creativity, is sidelined with a muscular injury picked up during international duty. His absence leaves Simeone’s side short of invention in central areas, forcing a likely tactical reshuffle.
Real Madrid Flying High Under Xabi Alonso
Across the city, Real Madrid are in blistering form. Xabi Alonso’s men sit comfortably at the top of LaLiga with a flawless record after four matches, combining tactical intelligence with attacking ruthlessness. Their victories over Espanyol, Marseille, and Real Sociedad have underlined their ability to dominate possession and punish opponents clinically.
The midfield engine of Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham has been a defining feature of their play, controlling tempo while also contributing goals. With Almada absent for Atlético, Real’s superiority in midfield could prove decisive. Alonso has urged his side to stay composed, reminding them that in derbies, passion and unpredictability can level the playing field.
Recent Derby History
The Madrid Derby has historically been a fierce contest, with both sides sharing victories in recent years. Out of the last six encounters across competitions, each team has claimed two wins, with two draws splitting the rest. Atlético’s most recent home win came in the Champions League earlier this year, where they ground out a 1-0 win through sheer defensive grit.
However, Real Madrid’s current momentum is daunting—they are riding a streak of seven consecutive victories in all competitions, showcasing depth, balance, and resilience. Breaking down Simeone’s famously structured defense won’t be easy, but Real’s attacking variety could tip the balance.
Prediction: Narrow Edge for Real Madrid
Given the current form and the absence of Almada, Real Madrid look slightly stronger heading into the derby. Atlético may well strike first through a set-piece or counterattack, but Los Blancos’ quality and squad depth should see them recover and push on for the win. Expect a fiery contest with late drama, as has become a hallmark of this rivalry.
Predicted Score: Atlético Madrid 1 – 3 Real Madrid
