Real Madrid will host Atlético Madrid on March 4, 2025, for the first leg of their much-anticipated Spanish capital derby, part of the UEFA Champions League last 16. The clash pits two of the most storied rivals against one another, with managerial heavyweight Carlo Ancelotti leading Los Blancos and Diego Simeone at the helm for Los Rojiblancos.
Looking forward to the match, Ancelotti expressed his excitement for what will be their 27th encounter, with both managers enjoying equal records of nine wins and eight draws against each other. Reflecting on the recent history of their rivalry, he stated, "It’s going to be a close tie to be decided in the second leg. The objective tomorrow is to play well and take an advantage." The Real Madrid coach emphasized the importance of staying grounded, particularly after Atletico handed Real their only two defeats during the 2023-24 season, where they emerged victorious in both league and Champions League encounters.
Despite having dominated previous Champions League duels, winning all four of their last meetings—including the memorable finals of 2014 and 2016—Real Madrid finds themselves struggling against their city counterparts. They've won only one of their last seven derbies, which came during the 2024 Super Cup final held last year in Saudi Arabia.
On the other hand, Simeone carries positive momentum as he leads Atlético, who have lost just once since October, positioning themselves above Madrid competitors in La Liga. "It’s a match with a lot of respect, against a great rival. I understand they respect us the same way," Simeone shared, showcasing his anticipation for the match. The stakes are high not just for this knockout tie, but also due to the tight competition for the La Liga title with only two points separating the rivals.
Simeone noted, "I’m very excited, as if it were my first day at Atlético. I came with the desire to take the club to an important place in Europe, respecting its values and its history," demonstrating his unwavering commitment to elevATING Atletico's stature on the continental stage.
With two draws already logged this season between the teams, the Madrid derby is expected to be fiercely contested. Both managers have employed unique styles to prepare their players, which adds layers of intrigue to the tactical battle. Ancelotti praised Simeone's prowess, stating, "He has done very well at Atletico, taken them to the highest level in Europe," illustrating the mutual respect existing between the two coaches.
Historical ties form the backbone of this tense rivalry, with Ancelotti recalling his first memory of Simeone when he scored for Lazio against Juventus during the title race back in 2000. "My first memory of him is as a footballer with Lazio, when he scored against Juventus. Lazio won and they took the championship, I think it was 2000," Ancelotti said during the press conference.
The second leg of the tie will be played at Wanda Metropolitano on March 12, and it remains to be seen how both clubs will handle the immense pressure of this fixture. Each manager acknowledges the greatness of the opposing team, and both are vying to capitalize on any mistakes made during the eagerly awaited clash.
With the added pressure of igniting morale for their respective supporters, the two teams’ upcoming encounters could deeply influence the 2023-24 season. The emotional significance of this derby stretches beyond league standings and tournament progression; it embodies the vibrant passion of Madrid football. Ancelotti concluded: "The match will be even and competitive, as a Madrid derby always is. It’s a special match with regard to the emotions and the pressure you feel during such big rivalry games."
Given the momentum and form each team possesses, this thrilling chapter of the Madrid derby is bound to capture the football world’s attention as they battle for supremacy.