Atlético Madrid will host Real Madrid on Sunday, September 20, in the latest edition of El Derbi Madrileño. With Atlético currently sitting in fourth place on 13 points and Real Madrid in second with 15 points, this match represents a crucial opportunity for both teams to strengthen their positions in LaLiga. A win for Atlético could see them close the gap on their rivals, while Real Madrid will be eager to maintain their momentum at the top of the table.
In terms of recent form, Atlético Madrid has recorded four wins, one draw, and one loss in their last six matches, while Real Madrid has been slightly more successful with five wins and one loss over the same period. This leaves Atlético with a goal difference of +8, scoring 14 goals and conceding 6, while Real Madrid boasts a superior goal difference of +11, having scored 17 and also conceded 6.
Statistically, Real Madrid has shown a more potent attacking presence this season, averaging nearly 3 expected goals per game (2.98) compared to Atlético's 1.54. Additionally, Real Madrid takes more shots, averaging 20.67 per match, while Atlético averages 16.83. On the defensive side, both teams have similar goals against averages, but Atlético's slightly higher expected goals against (0.99) suggests they may be more vulnerable defensively compared to Real Madrid's (0.92).
Historically, the rivalry has been fiercely contested, with Real Madrid winning 119 of the 243 total meetings. In their last five encounters, Real Madrid has claimed victory in three matches, including a narrow 3-2 win in March 2026. This ongoing rivalry has seen moments of intense competition, including a memorable series of matches during the late 1950s that garnered international attention.
For this matchup, Atlético will be without Alexander Sørloth and Pablo Barrios, while Real Madrid will miss Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy, and Rodrygo. The absence of key players on both sides could impact the match's dynamics, making it essential to watch how each team adapts their strategy in light of these losses.
