Atlético v Real Madrid: Latest team news and probable starting XI

This Thursday marks a highly anticipated showdown as Atlético Madrid hosts Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey Round of 16.

In this single-elimination tie, the battleground shifts to the Cívitas Metropolitano, deviating from last year’s quarterfinal hosted at Santiago Bernabéu, where Real Madrid controversially edged out Atlético in a nail-biting encounter that extended into extra time.

Expectations are high as both Diego Simeone and Carlo Ancelotti gear up to deploy their strongest lineups for this fiercely contested encounter.

The Argentine maestro, Simeone, grapples with two key absences – the sidelined Lemar and the absence of Reinildo Mandava, currently representing Mozambique in the Africa Cup of Nations.

On the flip side, Ancelotti navigates through the absence of four pivotal players – Courtois, Militao, and Alaba, enduring long-term spells on the sidelines, along with the versatile Lucas Vázquez, nursing back issues.

In the lead-up to the clash, Simeone has experimented with various tactical permutations during training sessions. The only lingering uncertainty resides in the choice between Nahuel Molina or Marcos Llorente for the right flank, unless a last-minute surprise shakes up the plans.

The latest trial lineup under Simeone’s watchful eye featured: Oblak; Molina, Witsel, Giménez, Hermoso, Lino; Koke, Saúl, De Paul; Griezmann, and Morata.

Meanwhile, in the Real Madrid camp, Ancelotti maintains an air of mystery surrounding his starting lineup. Rumors swirl that he contemplates injecting additional muscle into the midfield, potentially opting for Camavinga over Kroos.

The speculated Real Madrid lineup for this high-stakes encounter could showcase: Lunin; Carvajal, Rüdiger, Nacho, Mendy; Valverde, Camavinga, Tchouameni, Bellingham; Vinicius, and Rodrygo.

As the clock ticks down to the eagerly awaited kick-off, the footballing world braces for a clash that promises not only intense competition and tactical intrigue but also the unmistakable spirit characteristic of the Madrid derby.

This Copa del Rey spectacle is poised to deliver captivating drama and write another chapter in the storied rivalry between these two footballing giants.