Real Madrid will be without star midfielder Jude Bellingham, who is suspended for the first leg, while defensive duo Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal remain sidelined due to injury. However, Federico Valverde is set to return, potentially slotting in at right-back. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid will miss veteran defender César Azpilicueta and captain Koke, but they otherwise have a fully fit squad. Julian Alvarez, who scored the winner against Athletic Bilbao at the weekend, is pushing for a start alongside Antoine Griezmann in attack.

Despite their recent dominance over Atletico in the Champions League knockout rounds, Real Madrid have struggled in their recent derby encounters, with the last three meetings ending 1-1. Without Bellingham, Los Blancos may find it difficult to break down Simeone’s well-organized defence, while Atletico's counter-attacking threat could pose problems. A hard-fought battle is expected, and another 1-1 draw looks likely, leaving everything to play for in the second leg at the Metropolitano.