No more delays in decision-making, calculating, waiting, or measuring strengths—everything will be determined tonight.

If it appeared that both teams played cautiously in the first match at Santiago Bernabeu, when Real led 2:1, tonight, in Atletico’s home, the game is expected to burst into a full-on attack, playing “to the bare kings”.

Whether the “King” will be dethroned, or continue their champion’s run in their favorite competition, hinges significantly on the home side.

Atletico is gearing up for a substantial revenge against Real for their previous misfortunes in the Champions League. The past decade has seen much of it swing in Real’s favor—two finals, one decided after extra time, the other in penalties, and a quarter-final…

Real holds the advantage heading into the crucial match at “Wanda Metropolitano” stadium—not only because of their one-goal lead but also due to the composure and incredible self-assurance of Carlo Ancelotti‘s squad in this competition.

Yet, Atletico is known for their resilience; the Italian coach understands this well…

– I have faith in my players, I trust this team – said Atletico’s coach, Diego Simeone, to reporters.

– I can feel their heart, their ambition. I’m confident they will do everything possible to secure their spot in the Champions League. Our aim is to reach the final.

Real took the lead early in the first match with a goal from Rodrigo, but Julian Alvarez equalized with a stunning shot. The home team managed to clinch victory in the second half thanks to Brahim Dias during a phase when Atletico was dominating.

– Football can unfold in many ways during a match. We will face challenging moments… Ultimately, it will be the composure and talent of the players that will determine the outcome. The match will flow accordingly – added Simeone.

The Argentine is hopeful that the Champions League derby will invigorate his younger players, encouraging them to maintain their cool amidst the crowd’s fervor.

– We will enjoy incredible support, but the true challenge lies on the pitch. We won’t win merely because of what happens in the stands. A great performance is essential. I would ask the younger players if they ever envisioned competing in matches like this; they would likely say no. This is a beautiful opportunity for youth to gain experience in significant encounters.

On the other hand, there was a bit of tension at Real Madrid yesterday, as Kylian Mbappe missed most of the training session due to a muscle issue.

Ancelotti remained composed, despite being inundated with questions about the condition and form of his star striker in the press conference.

– I have more than 11 players available for this match; those who don’t play can also make valuable contributions… A well-timed substitution can be pivotal – said the Italian.

Real Madrid leads into the second leg and will undoubtedly aim to score at least once tonight.

– Derbies are always unpredictable. Sometimes we emerge victorious, sometimes they do. Tonight will be no different. The match will hinge on minor details.

Whoever progresses will face Arsenal in the quarter-finals, who triumphed over PSV 7-1 in the first leg in the Netherlands.

– Our goal is the quarter-finals. No, we haven’t practiced penalties; it’s not straightforward to do so. Right now, our focus is solely on playing well – Ancelotti emphasized.

Aston Villa also appears poised for the quarter-finals; they need to secure their place tonight against Club Brugge (having won 3:1 in the away leg), while the situation in France remains uncertain, where Lille and Borussia Dortmund are set to start from a 1:1 draw.

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