Germany soccer icon Lothar Matthaus believes Actual Madrid will come out on high towards Atletico Madrid of their UEFA Champions League spherical of 16 conflict.
The 2 Madrid giants haven’t confronted one another within the competitors since 2017, however their upcoming encounter is about to revive a fierce rivalry that noticed them meet 4 instances in simply 4 years between 2014 and 2017.
This conflict brings again recollections of the earlier high-stakes conferences between the 2 sides, notably within the Champions League finals.
Actual Madrid secured victory on each events—successful 4-1 in further time in 2014 after which prevailing on penalties in 2016.
Curiously, the managers from that period stay the identical, with Carlo Ancelotti nonetheless in control of Los Blancos and Diego Simeone main Atletico. Their deep data of one another’s techniques will add an intriguing layer to this encounter.
“I’d have most popular to see a global match at this stage quite than the Madrid derby. The 2 giants have already met twice within the Champions League last and on each events there was an excellent struggle,” stated Matthaus.
Actual Madrid will beat Atletico
Regardless of a couple of setbacks within the group stage, the place Madrid misplaced three matches and needed to depend on the playoffs, they managed to rise to the event when it mattered most.
Their efficiency towards Manchester Metropolis was a transparent instance of how they thrive below strain. Matthaus expects them to take care of that stage and guide their place within the quarter-finals.
Atletico, nonetheless, should not a group to be underestimated. Their preventing spirit and depth, particularly on the Estadio Metropolitano, have precipitated hassle for opponents previously.
“Within the Champions League, Actual Madrid misplaced thrice within the league section and subsequently needed to resort to the playoffs.
“However towards Manchester Metropolis, Actual Madrid have been as much as the duty. As at all times, when it issues. That’s why I feel Actual Madrid will make it to the quarter-finals. However Atletico will give it their all once more,” added the Germany legend.
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