Real Madrid – Atlético Madrid: Fortress Estadio Santiago Bernabéu Defended Easily (2-0)

Though neither side could imprint themselves upon the game through possession of the ball, Real Madrid claimed three points in the derby by showing how ruthless they can be in transition. While Diego Simeone’s side showed signs of life late on in the second half, it was too little too late for Atlético Madrid to get back into the match.
Tactical analysis and match report by Charlie Tuley.

Real Madrid came into the derby in fine form, having won all nine of their most recent matches in all competitions, as well as topping their Champions League group. Though they had been without star striker Karim Benzema in their midweek match against Inter Milan, they still managed to find two goals to beat the reigning Italian champions.

Real Madrid had just about a full squad to face their city rivals, with Karim Benzema returning to the side after a short injury spell, and Gareth Bale making his first appearance in the matchday squad since late August. Carlo Ancelotti continued with his favored 4-3-3 formation for the match against Atlético Madrid, and he again fielded his stalwart defense (Carvajal, Militão, Alaba, and Mendy) and midfield trio (Kroos, Casemiro, and Modrić). He made two changes to the forward line that started against Inter, with Rodrygo and Luka Jovic dropping to the bench in favor of Benzema and Marco Asensio to start alongside Vinícius Júnior.

It’s been a pretty poor season so far by Atlético Madrid’s standards, as they came into the match ten points behind Real Madrid (though they still have a game in hand). They had momentum from a massive midweek win in the Champions League, as they beat nine-man . . .