Real Madrid already have one foot in the Champions League final but victory over arch rivals Atletico would go down a treat with their supporters. Barring a miraculous turnaround, the Spanish giants will be joining Juventus in this year’s main event at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff – and it would take a brave man to back against Zinedine Zidane’s side.
As of May 10th, Real are 17/20 to lift the European Cup this campaign. With first leg hat-trick hero Cristiano Ronaldo in fine form, Zidane’s side will be favoured ahead of what could be a memorable contest. Meanwhile, Juventus are 11/10 to win the competition and head coach Massimiliano Allegri will do his utmost to slow Real’s offensive juggernaut down.
Can Real score? They always score...
But before that, there is the second leg. Can Atletico do the unthinkable? They are priced at 6/4 to win on Wednesday night and restoring some pride will be their primary objective. In theory, an early goal could change things but it is difficult to envision Real NOT scoring right now; Zidane’s side have scored at least once in 60 consecutive matches.
In fact, the visitors are now just one game from equalling Bayern Munich’s record of netting in 61 successive contests. It would be very fitting for Real to accomplish this against Atletico, especially as it will eliminate any slim chance of the hosts advancing to the next stage of the competition.
Ronaldo to do more damage?
For me, 5/3 on Real is a little short considering their situation but their recent form against Atletico is solid. The 11-time European Cup winners have won three of the last four clashes involving the two sides, scoring three times in all three of those victories. With that in mind, and Ronaldo’s record in the Madrid derby, it may prove prudent to back a few goals.
The Portugal legend is well priced at 26/25 to score during Wednesday’s clash and Zidane’s side should see plenty of chances fall their way on the counter attack. Whilst he will be wary of risking any potential injuries in a pretty dead contest, the Real boss will be desperate to win and build momentum ahead of the impending trip to Cardiff.
Score prediction
A tough one to call. Atletico will have to come out and attack but Diego Simeone’s side will be wary of leaving themselves exposed at the back. I fancy both teams to score in what may end up being an entertaining affair. A score draw (1-1 @ 6/1) looks a decent shout...
