Atletico Madrid will look to return to winning ways in La Liga when they host Celta Vigo at Wanda Metropolitano on Saturday evening. Diego Simeone's side currently sits second in the La Liga table, just one point behind Real Madrid, with a thrilling title race heating up as the season heads into its final stretch.
Celta Vigo, on the other hand, is in 12th place, just three points behind seventh-placed Real Sociedad. They are coming off a 3-2 win over Real Betis, but their task against Atletico is a tough one, as the Red and Whites have been in exceptional form at home.
Atletico Madrid's Strong Position
Atletico Madrid's defense has been outstanding this season, boasting the best defensive record in La Liga, conceding just 15 goals in 23 matches. The team also holds the best home record in Spain's top flight, with 30 points from 12 games, remaining unbeaten. Atletico will be favorites heading into this match and will be looking to keep pace with Real Madrid in the title race.
Simeone's squad is in excellent shape, with no reported injuries. The only change expected from their Madrid derby lineup could be the inclusion of Robin Le Normand, who was suspended last weekend. Atletico is expected to continue their strong form, led by star players Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez.
Celta Vigo's Resilience
Celta Vigo, while sitting mid-table, has been an entertaining team to watch this season. They’ve scored 34 goals but have also conceded 37, which is one of the worst defensive records in La Liga. However, their attack, led by Iago Aspas and the promising Williot Swedberg, has the potential to make things difficult for Atletico.
Despite having a tough task at Wanda Metropolitano, Celta will look to carry the momentum from their last-minute victory over Real Betis into this match. Coach Claudio Giraldez has some key players back from suspension, including Carl Starfelt and Ilaix Moriba, but injuries to Miguel Gutierrez and doubts over Franco Cervi and Unai Nunez could affect their plans.
Match Prediction
While Celta Vigo has the capability to cause problems for Atletico, it’s hard to see anything but a routine victory for the hosts. Atletico’s unbeaten home record and their solid squad should see them secure a 2-0 win over Celta Vigo in this La Liga clash.
Atletico Madrid's Possible Starting Lineup: Oblak; Llorente, Gimenez, Lenglet, Galan; Simeone, De Paul, Barrios, Lino; Griezmann, Alvarez
Celta Vigo's Possible Starting Lineup: Guaita; J Rodriguez, Starfelt, Alonso; Mingueza, Beltran, Sotelo, Alvarez; Aspas, Duran, Swedberg
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Conclusion
Atletico Madrid are well-positioned to keep their La Liga title hopes alive with a comfortable win over Celta Vigo this weekend.
With a solid defensive record and key players in excellent form, it will be a challenge for Celta to stop them at Wanda Metropolitano.
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