Atlético vs Real Madrid prediction: team news, lineups, expert analysis
On September 20, 2026, the seventh matchday of Spain's La Liga will feature a clash between Atlético and Real Madrid. A capital derby in which both sides desperately need a win.
Atlético vs Real Madrid: team news and expert analysis
The club from the Metropolitano endured a disappointing campaign last season, prioritizing the Champions League and the cup, where they eliminated Barcelona, but failed to lift the trophy in either competition. At the same time, they effectively abandoned their La Liga campaign and offered little resistance to Villarreal, who snatched third place. They have also dropped points in half of their matches at the start of this season — drawing with the same Villarreal and losing to Athletic Club. Atlético responded by thrashing Real Sociedad 3-0 and Osasuna 4-0. In the Champions League, the Spaniards scored first against Liverpool but eventually went down.
Their ambitious neighbors have not won a trophy since the beginning of last calendar year. Last season was a failure, prompting the club to bring in a number of new signings over the summer and appoint Mourinho as head coach. He began with a run of victories but slipped up against Betis. They nearly surrendered their win over Elche this week, but snatched a 3-2 victory in the 90+ minute. In the Champions League, however, the Spaniards made a winning start by beating Inter.
Simeone's men are currently averaging 2.33 goals per game, while conceding one per match. The runners-up are scoring 2.83 goals per round this season and also allowing one per game.
Previous matches: Atlético vs Real Madrid
Last year, the current hosts won in both the Champions League and La Liga. But in 2026, Mbappé and company have come out on top twice.
The visitors are currently favored. However, the hosts will put up a fight and are capable of avoiding defeat (odds – 1.79).
Atlético vs Real Madrid: key statistics and trends
- Atlético have won two matches in a row
- In 33% of Atlético Madrid's matches, both teams score, while the average total is 3.33 goals per game
- Real Madrid have won six of their seven matches
- In 67% of Real Madrid's matches, both teams score, while the average total is 3.83 goals per game
Atlético vs Real Madrid: possible starting lineups
Atlético play in a 1-4-4-2 formation (possible lineup): Oblak - Grimaldo, Hancko, Pubill, Llorente - Lookman, Hjulmand, Barrios, Simeone - Baena, Lee Kang-in
Real Madrid play in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (possible lineup): Courtois - Cucurella, Huijsen, Konaté, Dumfries - Alexander-Arnold, Valverde - Vinícius, Bellingham, Díaz - Mbappé
Follow the La Liga standings and check your team's form before placing a bet on the next match
