Atlético Madrid are set to host city rivals Real Madrid in a highly anticipated Madrid derby at the Riyadh Air Metroplitano on Sunday (today). Both sides will be looking to strengthen their position in the La Liga title race before the first international break of the season. Atlético Madrid began the season with a 2-0 home victory over newly promoted Málaga before playing out a 2-2 draw against Villarreal.
Diego Simeone’s side then travelled to Sevilla, where they secured an impressive 3-1 victory, but their momentum was halted by consecutive defeats to Athletic Club and Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League. Los Rojiblancos have since responded strongly, recording back-to-back victories over Real Sociedad and Osasuna, winning 3-0 and 4-0 respectively.
Atlético will now turn their attention to their city rivals, knowing that another victory could see them move above Real Madrid in the league standings heading into the international break. Real Madrid have also enjoyed a strong start to the campaign, winning all but one of their matches across all competitions. Los Blancos opened the season with three consecutive victories before suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat away to Real Betis.
José Mourinho’s side quickly bounced back, defeating Inter Milan 2-1 in the Champions League before recording league victories over Rayo Vallecano and Elche, winning 4-1 and 3-2 respectively. Real Madrid will be aiming for another three points on Sunday as they look to keep pace with Barcelona, who currently sit at the top of the La Liga table after making a perfect start to the season.
Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid have faced each other 243 times, with Los Blancos holding the historical advantage. Real Madrid have recorded 125 victories compared with Atlético’s 60, while 58 encounters have ended in draws.