Atleti vs Real: A UAE fans preview

Sport360 staff 23:30 18/11/2016
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  • UAE fans have their say.

    Ahead of the Madrid derby on Saturday, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid UAE-based fans give their verdict on the game.

    We asked UAE fans to share with us their predictions, likely line-ups and players to watch. Do you agree or have they missed the mark?

    Have your say by commenting below, using #360fans on Twitter or getting in touch via Facebook.

    Omar Mabrouk, Real Madrid Fan

    With Alvaro Morata injured, if Karim Benzema doesn’t return in time, should Cristiano Ronaldo start as the central striker?

    For Real Madrid the injuries started before the internationals with Toni Kroos but Morata’s hamstring injury this week represents a real headache for Zinedine Zidane. Benzema isn’t 100 per cent fit and that’s why Ronaldo may be considered for the number nine role with the support of Lucas Vasquez from the left side.

    Four wins in the last five and top of the league. Good time to play the derby?

    Games after the internationals are difficult to predict. I won’t be surprised to hear plenty ofexcuses after the game. Both teams would prefer to play the derby after two or three games for fine tuning purpose, however the calendar has its own rules and no one can change it.

    Marco Asensio has been living the dream. Would you back him to have an impact in this one?

    Asensio’s debut season with the Whites has exceeded everyone’s expectations. His goal in the Super Cup against Sevilla was phenomenal. Not seeing him in the starting XI for the past few games is surprising and disappointing at the same time.

    However, with the current injuries, it might be the best occasion for Asensio to show up on the team’s initial line-up. Still, Zinedine Zidane might keep him on the bench until they take a one or two-goal lead.

    SCORE PREDICTION: 1-2 win for Real Madrid.

    LIKELY REAL XI: Navas, Carvajal, Ramos, Varane, Marcelo, Modric, Casemiro, Lucas Vasquez, Ronaldo, Bale, Benzema

    REAL PLAYER TO WATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo – Had a good time during the international break. If we add to it the extension of his contract, all those things should reflect in his performance so people stop accusing him for being “unknown” during the big games.

    ATLETICO PLAYER TO FEAR: Antoinne Griezmann – Regardless of his recent injury, Griezmann will be in the starting eleven in this derby.

    WHERE TO WATCH: Real Madrid Cafe

    FACEBOOK:Real Madrid Fan Club UAE

    Borja Vela, Atletico Madrid Fan

    If Griezmann isn’t fit, should Fernando Torres start or can Kevin Gameiro lead the line on his own?

    I think Simeone would prefer to start with another offensive player such as Correa or Gaitan rather than pairing Torres with Gameiro.

    This is because Griezmann stands out for his link-up play with other players and Simeone would like to replace him with a player of similar assets.

    Fourth place and six points behind Real. Is this a must-win game?

    Of course it’s a must-win. Anything other than a win will be a hard blow that can mean forgetting about the league.

    How much of an advantage is it when the derby is played at Vicente Calderon?

    Every match in Vicente Calderon gives an advantage to Atletico. The supporters are the kind that give everything during the match. Considering this is a game against our main rival, I’m sure playing at home will be a huge advantage.

    SCORE PREDICTION: 2-0 to Atletico.

    LIKELY ATLETICO XI: Oblak; Juanfran, Savic, Godín, Filipe; Gabi, Saúl, Koke, Carrasco, Griezmann, Gameiro.

    ATLETICO PLAYER TO WATCH: Yannick Carrasco – He is in an absolutely high moment. If Griezmann isn’t in his best form, he will be the leader of the Atletico attacks.

    REAL PLAYER TO FEAR: Luka Modric- He is Real’s brain. If he is okay, Real play with sense. Their entire game revolves around him.

    WHERE TO WATCH: Casa de Tapas in Dubai Golf Creek

    FACEBOOK: Atletico Fan Club UAE

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