Sometimes, even a city of that size is too small. The controversy was initiated recently and slowly boiled to the fever pitch it reached the day before the Madrid derby. And this time, it’s much more than just another city derby. The two teams are closer in the table than ever, just a point separating La Liga leaders Real Madrid from the runners-up Atletico Madrid.Tonight’s clash at the Bernabeu (11 pm) might be one of the season’s most important and decisive moments. Los Blancos have been fuming ever since that last round and the loss to Espanyol, complaining about referees, which will definitely affect the Atletico tie, too.##NAJAVA_MECA_8692213##The whistle will be awarded to Cesar Soto Grado, who has had some controversial calls so far when officiating against Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. He sent off Vinicius Junior at Mestalla a month ago, and the other Madrid club complained about his officiating in the previous Derby Madrileno.The referee issues aside, Diego Simeone provided us with a banter to remember and laugh, when asked about the way they’re going into this derby.”We’re coming by bus, as always”.The last time Real Madrid won a La Liga game against Atletico Madrid at the Bernabéu was December 2021.2-0, Benzema & Asensio. pic.twitter.com/0IllkG5ib0— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) February 8, 2025 Witty Cholo is obviously brimming with confidence ahead of the match that could launch them straight to the summit in the case of a victory. However, it’s been quite a while since the last Los Colchoneros triumph at the Bernabeu – they’ve been winless in the previous nine games.On the other hand, Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe are rested and eager to showcase their unique set of skills that Real Madrid desperately need this Saturday night. The stage is set for the derby like no other.LA LIGA – MATCHDAY 23Friday Rayo Vallecano – Valladolid Saturday Celta – Betis IN PROGRESS18.15: (1.70) Ath.Bilbao (3.70) Girona (5.90)20.30: (4.90) Las Palmas (3.60) Villareal (1.75)23.00: (2.00) Real Madrid (3.60) Atl.Madrid (4.00)Sunday 16.00: (2.35) Alaves (2.95) Getafe (3.60)18.15: (1.80) Valencia (3.50) Leganes (5.40)20.30: (1.60) Sociedad (3.60) Espanyol (6.50)23.00: (5.90) Sevilla (4.20) Barcelona (1.55)Monday 23.00: (2.10) Mallorca (3.20) Osasuna (4.20)***odds are subject to change***
