2015-16 La Liga: Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid Betting Tips

Zinedine Zidane may have had lot of experience and success in Madrid derbies as a player. However, it will be his first time in the dugout as a coach as Real Madrid host crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid in a mouthwatering matchday 26 clash in La Liga on Saturday, 27th of February.

Both teams are struggling to stay in touch with runaway leaders Barcelona who lead the table with 63 points. Atletico (55 points) follow them while Real are a further point behind. The clash may not be title determining but for both these teams it’s much more than city pride that’s on the line.

Real seemed to have stabilized things under Zidane after a forgettable start to the season under former coach Rafael Benitez. In the last 10 games, the hosts have won seven games and earned 24 points. Although, this match will be the first big test for the credentials of Zidane as a coach.

Los Blancos were very fortunate to earn a draw against middling squad Malaga in their last match and despite being able to muster points under Zidane, the swagger of Real is not yet back and this should be worrying for the home fans. Cristiano Ronaldo is a different proposition at home as the star striker is known for gobbling up multiple goals on home soil.

Diego Simeone has just as many problems with his side struggling for consistency in the final third. With just seven goals in the last eight games, the troubles for Simeone are prominent. His side has gathered a meagre 16 points in their last 10 games in La Liga which includes just four wins.

Injuries to key players isn’t helping Atleti either with Stefan Savic joining Tiago Mendes and Yannick Carrasco on the sidelines. Simeone is a master motivator in derbies and his expertise will be put to the test here.

Oddly enough both these sides have problems of their own with neither side showing any signs of consistency. Real are slightly better at home and should consider themselves favorites for this encounter; especially with the goal-shy Atleti on offer.

They are favoured to win @ $1.74 with Sportsbet, but don’t rule out the visitors hanging for a draw @ $3.60 with Sportsbet.

Watch out for Ronaldo as he loves taking centre stage at home while Antoine Griezmann could be vital for Atleti.

Madrid derbies are never short of excitement and this clash promises to be more of the same.