Atlético-Real Madrid: Copa quarter-final place at stake

After lifting the Spanish Super Cup on Sunday, Real Madrid continue immersed in a gruelling fixture list and now face the Copa del Rey last-16 Madrid derby. Ancelotti's side take on Atlético at the Cívitas Metropolitano (9.30pm CET) in a single-leg tie.

The Whites are full of confidence after winning their first trophy of the season against Barcelona, and will be replaying the Super Cup semi-final against Atlético Madrid. In that match, Madrid prevailed in extra time (5-3). This is also the second consecutive edition in which both teams have faced each other in the Copa del Rey. Last season, the madridistas progressed from the quarter-finals with a 3-1 win at the Bernabéu and went on to secure the trophy.

“We're expecting an even tougher derby than the Super Cup,” said Carlo Ancelotti in the press conference ahead of the Madrid derby. The Italian coach has included the same group of players in his squad as he did in the Spanish Super Cup. This includes Vini Jr., who was named MVP of the final against Barça after netting a hat-trick, and Bellingham, who is the team’s top goal scorer with 17 goals. Both Madrid stars were also named in the 2023 FIFA FIFPro World11, alongside Courtois.

Atlético
Simeone's side reached the last 16 after beating Lugo away in the previous round (1-3) courtesy of a double from Depay and a goal from Correa. Atlético are currently fifth in LaLiga and have qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League. Their top scorers are Griezmann and Morata, both with 17 goals.