Atlético Madrid vs Real Madrid Timeline, Predictions, How to Watch

Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid meet in the first Madrid derby of the 2025–26 La Liga season on Saturday, September 27, at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid. The main keyword “atlético madrid vs real madrid timeline, predictions, how to watch” fits this high-stakes clash as Xabi Alonso takes charge of his first derby for Los Blancos.

Real Madrid arrive in unstoppable form, winning their first seven league games. Atlético Madrid have struggled early, earning just nine points, but Diego Simeone’s sides often rise in derbies. This match could decide early-season momentum in Spain’s title race.

Atlético Madrid vs Real Madrid: Key Match Details

Real Madrid sit top of La Liga with a perfect start. Atlético Madrid have been inconsistent but showed resilience with a 3–2 win over Rayo Vallecano this week. In recent La Liga encounters, the derby has been balanced — the last three league meetings ended in draws. Atlético were also the only team to beat Real Madrid in 2023–24.

Kick-off is set for 3:15 p.m. BST (10:15 a.m. ET / 7:15 a.m. PT). Fans can watch the match live on ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes in the United States, LaLigaTV in the UK, and TSN platforms in Canada. Sky+ and Sky Sports will broadcast the game in Mexico.

Atlético Madrid will be without José María Giménez, Thiago Almada and Johnny Cardoso due to injury. However, Alexander Sørloth returns after suspension and should partner Julián Alvarez up front. Antoine Griezmann may drop to the bench after a slow start.

Real Madrid remain without Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ferland Mendy and Antonio Rüdiger in defense. Still, Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão and young talents Álvaro Carreras and Dean Huijsen have filled the gaps. Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga return from injury but might be managed carefully. Xabi Alonso could start teenage sensation Franco Mastantuono with Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior leading the attack.

Match Prediction and Analysis

Diego Simeone’s Atlético are always tough to beat at home, but their defensive struggles — only one clean sheet this season — could be costly against Real Madrid’s firepower. Mbappé and Vinícius look sharp, and Alonso’s side has shown strong control in midfield with Aurélien Tchouaméni and Federico Valverde.

Real Madrid’s perfect start suggests confidence and tactical clarity under Alonso. Atlético’s passion and home support could keep the game tight, but Real Madrid’s quality in attack and depth in midfield give them the edge.

Prediction: Atlético Madrid 1–2 Real Madrid. Expect a competitive first half, but Los Blancos should break through in the second with their attacking depth.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time does Atlético Madrid vs Real Madrid start?

The match kicks off at 3:15 p.m. BST / 10:15 a.m. ET / 7:15 a.m. PT on Saturday, September 27.

Q2: Where can I watch Atlético Madrid vs Real Madrid live?

In the U.S., watch on ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes. UK viewers can watch on LaLigaTV, and Canada has TSN and Prime Video coverage.

Q3: Who will miss the Madrid derby due to injury?

Atlético miss José María Giménez, Thiago Almada and Johnny Cardoso. Real Madrid are without Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ferland Mendy and Antonio Rüdiger.

Q4: Who is likely to start up front for Atlético Madrid?

Alexander Sørloth returns and should partner Julián Alvarez in attack. Antoine Griezmann may be benched.

Q5: Who could decide the game for Real Madrid?

Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior are the main threats, while Jude Bellingham and Aurélien Tchouaméni can control midfield.