The time for delaying decisions, calculating outcomes, and assessing strength is over—everything will unfold tonight.

If the first match at the Santiago Bernabeu saw both teams play conservatively with Real leading 2:1, the atmosphere at Atletico’s home is anticipated to ignite, promising a thrilling encounter.

Whether the King will be exposed or continue their quest in their beloved competition hinges greatly on the home side.

Atletico is gearing up for significant retribution against Real for past defeats in the Champions League. The pain has been substantial over the last decade, culminating in two finals, one settled after extra time and the other after a penalty shoot-out, along with another quarter-final…

Currently, Real enjoys a favorable position heading into the crucial match at the “Wanda Metropolitano” stadium—not just due to their one-goal lead but also because of their unshakeable calm and exceptional confidence exuded by Carlo Ancelotti in this competition.

However, Atletico is anything but resigned—this knowledge isn’t lost on their Italian manager…

“I have faith in my players, and I believe in this team,” said Diego Simeone to journalists.

“I completely understand their passion and determination. I’m confident they will do everything within their power to remain in the Champions League. Our goal is to reach the final.”

In the first match, Real took the lead early with a goal from Rodrigo, but Julian Alvarez equalized spectacularly before halftime. The home team sealed the match in the second half through Brahim Dias, during a phase when Atletico was controlling the game.

“Football presents various scenarios, and we expect to face tough moments… The composure and quality of our players will be the deciding factors,” Simeone added.

The Argentine hopes the Champions League derby will serve as motivation for his young players, encouraging them to maintain their composure as the supporters rally behind them.

“We will enjoy fantastic support, but ultimately, the reality lies on the field. Success will not come from the stands; we need to execute a great game. I would ask the young players if they ever envisioned playing in such matches, and they would likely say no. It’s a beautiful experience for youth to gain such valuable exposure.”

On the other hand, there was some concern at Real Madrid yesterday as Kylian Mbappe missed a significant portion of training due to a muscle issue.

As always, Ancelotti remained composed, despite being inundated with questions regarding the injury status and form of his star striker during the press conference.

“I have more than 11 players available for this match; those who are not playing will also contribute in their own way… A well-timed substitution can make a significant difference,” the Italian noted.

With Real Madrid leading into the second leg, they will undoubtedly aim to score at least one goal tonight.

“The derby is always unpredictable. Sometimes we win, and at other times they do. Tonight will be no different. It will be determined by the smallest details.”

The winning side will face Arsenal in the quarter-finals, who comfortably won 7-1 in their first leg against PSV in the Netherlands.

“Our goal is the quarter-finals. No, we haven’t practiced penalties; they’re not easy to prepare for. Right now, our focus is solely on how to perform well,” Ancelotti emphasized.

Meanwhile, Aston Villa is also close to quarter-final qualification and must finish the job against Club Brugge tonight (they lead 3:1 from the first leg), while Lille and Borussia Dortmund will start from a level playing field in France (1:1).

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