The Battle of Madrid: Atletico vs. Real – The fiery rivalry which doesn’t appear to be cooling down

The rivalry between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, often referred to as the “El Derbi Madrileño,” is one of the most intense and storied rivalries in world football. Rooted in the deep historical and cultural divide of the Spanish capital, this fixture is marked by passion, pride, and a fierce competitive spirit that has endured for over a century.

Atletico Madrid, known as Los Rojiblancos or simply Atleti, has historically represented the working-class neighbourhoods of Madrid, and their fans are deeply passionate about their team’s success.

Real Madrid, on the other hand, carries the nickname Los Blancos, symbolizing the club’s regal and aristocratic image. This contrast in identity and fanbase has intensified the rivalry, making each match a high-stakes battle not only for points but also for bragging rights in the city.

As Real Madrid’s players step onto the pitch of Atletico’s Wanda Metropolitano stadium this evening, they can be expected to be met with masses of boos, hisses, and insults. These are almost considered standard practice at a game like this, but this game arrives at a time of heightened tension between the two sides.

Last season, an incident involving an effigy of Real Madrid winger, Vinicius Junior, garnered significant attention. The effigy was hung from a bridge in close proximity to Real Madrid’s training ground just before a highly anticipated derby match. Regrettably, during the same derby, the Brazilian player faced a distressing moment when subjected to racist chants from some Atletico Madrid supporters.

Adding to the intensity of the rivalry, Thibaut Courtois, the Real Madrid goalkeeper who had previously played for Atletico from 2011 to 2014, faced criticism from his former club for what they perceived as a lack of respect and subsequently, a plaque dedicated to Courtois outside their stadium was desecrated in a contentious act.

In another incident, the rivalry’s flames were further stoked when Fernando Torres and Alvaro Arbeloa, who were teammates on Spain’s 2010 World Cup-winning squad, found themselves mired in a heated touchline altercation while managing respective teams in a match between the under-19 squads of Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.

As a result, bridges are burning rapidly between these two famed sides that share the city of Madrid. Today, expect the game to get heated between these two warring factions.

Real Madrid have enjoyed a perfect start to the season, gathering five wins from as many La Liga games, despite the fact that they have relied on late Jude Bellingham goals on multiple occasions to secure the three points.

Bellingham has been a revelation for Los Blancos. The €100m 20-year-old carries the mentality of a seasoned veteran, plays with unbridled composure and has scored five goals in five La Liga games, as well as scoring the winner in the Champions League against Union Berlin. He has formed close bonds with other young players such as Frenchmen Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni and is thriving in his advanced role on the pitch.

Real Madrid, although perfect mathematically, haven’t always looked convincing on the pitch. They are missing key goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, indispensable defender Eder Militao and most notably, Vinicius Jr. has been nursing an injury (although he may be involved in the derby). The side have struggled for goals in the Brazilian’s absence and are missing the clinical finishing ability of Karim Benzema who has yet to be replaced. Joselu currently is filling in in his stead.

Atletico have had a mixed start to the season. They recorded their biggest away win in La Liga history as they completely demolished a helpless Rayo Vallecano side (7-0). Yet, in their next game, they were swept aside 3-0 by Valencia in an unconvincing performance. So far, Jekyll and Hyde for Atleti but with seven points from four games, it is a respectable return for Diego Simeone’s men.

However, there is a major setback for Simeone’s side. Rodrigo de Paul, World Cup winner and midfield engine, is out for the derby as he battles with injury. The highly versatile Argentine midfielder possesses an exceptional passing ability and work rate and he is an invaluable asset for Atleti.

As a result, Real Madrid are the slight favourites on bet365, at 8/5. Atletico Madrid are priced at 15/8.

By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter