Ancelotti Calls Madrid Derby a Unique Experience Ahead of Crucial Showdown with Atletico

Key Takeaways

Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid meet in a crucial derby.
Only one point separates the two teams in the standings.
Kylian Mbappe makes his debut in the Madrid derby.
Ancelotti emphasizes the significance of the match.
Both teams are in strong form heading into the game.

Madrid, Feb 7 (NationPress) La Liga leaders Real Madrid are set to clash with their local rivals Atletico Madrid for the second encounter of the Madrid Derby this season. With just a single point difference between the two teams on the standings, head coach Carlos Ancelotti anticipates a match that will be nothing short of ‘special’ this Sunday (IST).

“This is a match of great significance for both teams vying for the league title. The (Madrid) derby is always a unique encounter. Atletico is a formidable opponent, and we expect a balanced match. There are no surprises as we approach the game. The opposition possesses ample quality to compete for this title, just like we do,” Ancelotti stated during a press conference.

Heading into this match, Madrid is buoyed by their last-minute victory over Leganes in the quarter-finals of the Copa Del Rey. Conversely, Atletico comes off a dominant 5-0 win against Getafe.

Kylian Mbappe will be making his debut in the Madrid derby against Atletico this Saturday. The French forward, who has netted 22 goals this season, shared his excitement for the upcoming match.

“It promises to be an exhilarating match and holds great importance. This will be my first experience in this derby. I am eager to contribute to the team and hope for a victory,” said Mbappe.

“My goal is always to play to win. I believe this match is crucial for us and all Madridistas. Our aim remains the same: to secure the win. Particularly since we are facing Atletico, who are closely trailing us in the league. We must win and will strive to achieve that,” he concluded in an interview with RM Play Sessions.

In addition, Ancelotti commended the French striker. “He has integrated well into the team with humility. He has not made any demands regarding his position or when to take penalties or free-kicks. He took the necessary time to adapt to the team and his role. The statistics speak for themselves as he has scored 22 goals. He is performing exceptionally well, just as we all anticipated,” he added.