The football world turns its attention to Madrid this Wednesday, March 12, 2025, as Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid face off in the second leg of the 2024/25 Champions League round of 16. Scheduled at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, the clash kicks off at 5 p.m. (Brasília time) and carries the weight of a historic rivalry that has seen 239 encounters. Following Real’s 2-1 victory in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, Carlo Ancelotti’s side holds the advantage, while Atlético, led by Diego Simeone, relies on the support of over 67,000 fans to overturn the scoreline and advance to the quarterfinals. This duel, pitting La Liga’s current second-placed team against the third, promises tactical intensity, emotion, and an unpredictable outcome, with live broadcasts available for Brazilian fans. French referee Clément Turpin will officiate, assisted by Jérôme Brisard on VAR, ensuring precision in a match that demands it.
The stakes extend beyond mere qualification. For Atlético, a win is crucial to keep their European dreams alive and regain confidence after a 2-1 loss to Getafe in their latest La Liga match, a result that exposed defensive weaknesses and raised concerns about the fitness of key players like Rodrigo De Paul, currently recovering from injury. Meanwhile, Real Madrid rides a wave of momentum with four consecutive wins across all competitions, including a convincing triumph over Rayo Vallecano, fueled by Vinicius Jr.’s stunning goal. With Jude Bellingham back from suspension and Thibaut Courtois recovered, Ancelotti’s squad looks formidable. Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé spearhead Real’s hopes, with the latter still chasing his first goal in a Champions League Madrid derby.
Brazilian fans can easily tune in, with Max providing exclusive streaming coverage starting at 5 p.m. (Brasília time). Sports portals will also offer real-time updates, delivering play-by-play action, stats, and analysis for those unable to watch live. With tickets sold out and a forecast of 14°C in Madrid without rain, the stage is set for a showdown that could shape the season for both clubs.
Derby in focus: pressure at Wanda Metropolitano and tactical battles
Overcoming a 2-1 deficit at home is no easy feat, but Atlético de Madrid has a track record of pulling off such comebacks at the Wanda Metropolitano, where the crowd turns the stadium into a cauldron. In the first leg on March 4, Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz scored for Real, while Julián Álvarez’s brilliant strike kept Atlético’s hopes alive. Now, Simeone’s side needs a two-goal margin to advance outright or a one-goal win to force extra time, a challenge that hinges on the attacking prowess of Griezmann and Álvarez against Real’s stout defense, anchored by Courtois and Rüdiger.
Real Madrid, in contrast, enjoys a stable run. Beyond their first-leg win, the team has secured four straight victories, highlighted by a thrashing of Rayo Vallecano, driven by Vinicius Jr.’s pace and flair. Ancelotti, renowned for his composure in high-stakes games, is likely to stick with a balanced approach, leveraging counterattacks and Bellingham’s dynamism after his return. The scoreline advantage allows Real to play with patience, though history warns that underestimating Atlético on their turf can prove costly.
Probable lineups suggest tweaks on both sides. Atlético might field Oblak in goal, with Llorente, Giménez, Lenglet, and Galán in defense, Simeone, Barrios, and Samuel Lino in midfield (pending De Paul’s recovery), and Griezmann and Álvarez up top. Real could deploy Courtois, Valverde, Rüdiger, Raúl Asencio, and Mendy at the back, Tchouaméni, Camavinga, and Brahim Díaz in the middle, and Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr., and Mbappé leading the attack. Injuries to Koke (Atlético) and Militão (Real) won’t diminish the quality on display.
Historic rivalry: numbers and moments that define the clash
The Atlético de Madrid vs Real Madrid saga is steeped in tradition and disparity. Across 239 meetings, Real holds 118 wins to Atlético’s 59, with 62 draws. In the Champions League, Real’s dominance is stark: they’ve won all five knockout ties, including the dramatic finals of 2014 and 2016. Yet, Atlético has grown into a tougher foe in recent years, especially at home, where their passionate supporters often level the playing field against their crosstown rivals.
The last five encounters reflect a shift toward balance: one win each and three draws. In February’s La Liga clash at the Bernabéu, the sides drew 1-1, with Álvarez and Bellingham scoring. Earlier, in September 2024, Atlético triumphed 2-0 at the Wanda Metropolitano, while Real took the first leg of this round 2-1. An average of 2.6 goals per game over the last ten derbies underscores the trend of tight, thrilling contests, a pattern likely to hold this Wednesday.
Standout performers add spice to the rivalry. Julián Álvarez, with goals in three of his last four games against Real, is Atlético’s dangerman, alongside the technically gifted Griezmann. For Real, Vinicius Jr. shines with clutch performances, while Mbappé aims to make his mark in a European derby. These stars, paired with the historical stats, heighten anticipation for a match that could become a classic.
How to watch: options and trivia for fans
Catching the derby live is straightforward for Brazilians. Max, the official Champions League streaming platform in Brazil, broadcasts the game from 5 p.m. (Brasília time), with pre-match coverage featuring lineups, interviews, and tactical breakdowns. For those preferring alternatives, sports websites provide minute-by-minute updates, complete with stats and highlights, ensuring fans miss nothing critical.
Madrid’s atmosphere will be electric. The Wanda Metropolitano, seating over 67,000, will be packed, and with 14°C and clear skies forecast, conditions are perfect for football. Pundits are split: some predict a 1-1 draw, keeping Real alive, while others see Atlético edging a 2-1 win to force extra time. The fans’ fervor and the century-old rivalry guarantee a charged setting.
Here are some intriguing facts:
- Real has knocked Atlético out in all five Champions League knockout ties.
- Simeone has never beaten Ancelotti in a Champions League elimination match.
- The biggest derby thrashing was a 5-0 Real win in 1958.
- Vinicius Jr. has scored in two of the last three games against Atlético.
Champions League timeline: what’s next after the derby
This Wednesday’s clash fits into a packed 2024/25 Champions League schedule. The first leg on March 4 gave Real the edge, but the outcome now hinges on Atlético’s home performance at the Wanda Metropolitano. The winner will face either Arsenal or PSV in the quarterfinals, with Arsenal holding a commanding 7-1 lead from their first leg. The next round is slated for April, with the draw set shortly after the round of 16 concludes.
Atlético finished the group stage 5th with 18 points, while Real, 11th in the standings, navigated the playoffs, ousting Manchester City with 3-2 and 3-1 wins. In La Liga, Atlético sits second with 55 points, just one ahead of third-placed Real, making this derby pivotal for morale. Real’s last five games show consistency (four wins, one loss), while Atlético has been uneven (two wins, two draws, one loss).
Tactical preparations reveal the stakes. Simeone may bolster the midfield to stifle Real’s swift attacks, while Ancelotti leans on Tchouaméni’s adaptability in defense and Valverde’s flexibility at full-back. With contrasting styles and top-tier squads, the derby promises a battle of wits and endurance.

The football world turns its attention to Madrid this Wednesday, March 12, 2025, as Atlético de Madrid and Real Madrid face off in the second leg of the 2024/25 Champions League round of 16. Scheduled at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, the clash kicks off at 5 p.m. (Brasília time) and carries the weight of a historic rivalry that has seen 239 encounters. Following Real’s 2-1 victory in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, Carlo Ancelotti’s side holds the advantage, while Atlético, led by Diego Simeone, relies on the support of over 67,000 fans to overturn the scoreline and advance to the quarterfinals. This duel, pitting La Liga’s current second-placed team against the third, promises tactical intensity, emotion, and an unpredictable outcome, with live broadcasts available for Brazilian fans. French referee Clément Turpin will officiate, assisted by Jérôme Brisard on VAR, ensuring precision in a match that demands it.
The stakes extend beyond mere qualification. For Atlético, a win is crucial to keep their European dreams alive and regain confidence after a 2-1 loss to Getafe in their latest La Liga match, a result that exposed defensive weaknesses and raised concerns about the fitness of key players like Rodrigo De Paul, currently recovering from injury. Meanwhile, Real Madrid rides a wave of momentum with four consecutive wins across all competitions, including a convincing triumph over Rayo Vallecano, fueled by Vinicius Jr.’s stunning goal. With Jude Bellingham back from suspension and Thibaut Courtois recovered, Ancelotti’s squad looks formidable. Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé spearhead Real’s hopes, with the latter still chasing his first goal in a Champions League Madrid derby.
Brazilian fans can easily tune in, with Max providing exclusive streaming coverage starting at 5 p.m. (Brasília time). Sports portals will also offer real-time updates, delivering play-by-play action, stats, and analysis for those unable to watch live. With tickets sold out and a forecast of 14°C in Madrid without rain, the stage is set for a showdown that could shape the season for both clubs.
Derby in focus: pressure at Wanda Metropolitano and tactical battles
Overcoming a 2-1 deficit at home is no easy feat, but Atlético de Madrid has a track record of pulling off such comebacks at the Wanda Metropolitano, where the crowd turns the stadium into a cauldron. In the first leg on March 4, Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz scored for Real, while Julián Álvarez’s brilliant strike kept Atlético’s hopes alive. Now, Simeone’s side needs a two-goal margin to advance outright or a one-goal win to force extra time, a challenge that hinges on the attacking prowess of Griezmann and Álvarez against Real’s stout defense, anchored by Courtois and Rüdiger.
Real Madrid, in contrast, enjoys a stable run. Beyond their first-leg win, the team has secured four straight victories, highlighted by a thrashing of Rayo Vallecano, driven by Vinicius Jr.’s pace and flair. Ancelotti, renowned for his composure in high-stakes games, is likely to stick with a balanced approach, leveraging counterattacks and Bellingham’s dynamism after his return. The scoreline advantage allows Real to play with patience, though history warns that underestimating Atlético on their turf can prove costly.
Probable lineups suggest tweaks on both sides. Atlético might field Oblak in goal, with Llorente, Giménez, Lenglet, and Galán in defense, Simeone, Barrios, and Samuel Lino in midfield (pending De Paul’s recovery), and Griezmann and Álvarez up top. Real could deploy Courtois, Valverde, Rüdiger, Raúl Asencio, and Mendy at the back, Tchouaméni, Camavinga, and Brahim Díaz in the middle, and Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr., and Mbappé leading the attack. Injuries to Koke (Atlético) and Militão (Real) won’t diminish the quality on display.
Historic rivalry: numbers and moments that define the clash
The Atlético de Madrid vs Real Madrid saga is steeped in tradition and disparity. Across 239 meetings, Real holds 118 wins to Atlético’s 59, with 62 draws. In the Champions League, Real’s dominance is stark: they’ve won all five knockout ties, including the dramatic finals of 2014 and 2016. Yet, Atlético has grown into a tougher foe in recent years, especially at home, where their passionate supporters often level the playing field against their crosstown rivals.
The last five encounters reflect a shift toward balance: one win each and three draws. In February’s La Liga clash at the Bernabéu, the sides drew 1-1, with Álvarez and Bellingham scoring. Earlier, in September 2024, Atlético triumphed 2-0 at the Wanda Metropolitano, while Real took the first leg of this round 2-1. An average of 2.6 goals per game over the last ten derbies underscores the trend of tight, thrilling contests, a pattern likely to hold this Wednesday.
Standout performers add spice to the rivalry. Julián Álvarez, with goals in three of his last four games against Real, is Atlético’s dangerman, alongside the technically gifted Griezmann. For Real, Vinicius Jr. shines with clutch performances, while Mbappé aims to make his mark in a European derby. These stars, paired with the historical stats, heighten anticipation for a match that could become a classic.
How to watch: options and trivia for fans
Catching the derby live is straightforward for Brazilians. Max, the official Champions League streaming platform in Brazil, broadcasts the game from 5 p.m. (Brasília time), with pre-match coverage featuring lineups, interviews, and tactical breakdowns. For those preferring alternatives, sports websites provide minute-by-minute updates, complete with stats and highlights, ensuring fans miss nothing critical.
Madrid’s atmosphere will be electric. The Wanda Metropolitano, seating over 67,000, will be packed, and with 14°C and clear skies forecast, conditions are perfect for football. Pundits are split: some predict a 1-1 draw, keeping Real alive, while others see Atlético edging a 2-1 win to force extra time. The fans’ fervor and the century-old rivalry guarantee a charged setting.
Here are some intriguing facts:
- Real has knocked Atlético out in all five Champions League knockout ties.
- Simeone has never beaten Ancelotti in a Champions League elimination match.
- The biggest derby thrashing was a 5-0 Real win in 1958.
- Vinicius Jr. has scored in two of the last three games against Atlético.
Champions League timeline: what’s next after the derby
This Wednesday’s clash fits into a packed 2024/25 Champions League schedule. The first leg on March 4 gave Real the edge, but the outcome now hinges on Atlético’s home performance at the Wanda Metropolitano. The winner will face either Arsenal or PSV in the quarterfinals, with Arsenal holding a commanding 7-1 lead from their first leg. The next round is slated for April, with the draw set shortly after the round of 16 concludes.
Atlético finished the group stage 5th with 18 points, while Real, 11th in the standings, navigated the playoffs, ousting Manchester City with 3-2 and 3-1 wins. In La Liga, Atlético sits second with 55 points, just one ahead of third-placed Real, making this derby pivotal for morale. Real’s last five games show consistency (four wins, one loss), while Atlético has been uneven (two wins, two draws, one loss).
Tactical preparations reveal the stakes. Simeone may bolster the midfield to stifle Real’s swift attacks, while Ancelotti leans on Tchouaméni’s adaptability in defense and Valverde’s flexibility at full-back. With contrasting styles and top-tier squads, the derby promises a battle of wits and endurance.
