Maldini's Prediction for Real Madrid - Atlético Champions Clash: 'i Give...'

Yesterday the draw for the Champions League round of 16 took place. Real Madrid, which could have faced Bayer Leverkusen or Atlético de Madrid, will face Simeone's team. There will be a Madrid classic in the Champions League.

The first leg will be on March 4 at the Bernabéu, while the return leg will be played on the 12th at the Metropolitano. The red-and-white team has the home-field advantage because they had a better first phase. Even so, in Valdebebas, they hope that Madridism will carry their team to a good result for the second and decisive match.

The two direct duels that have been played so far have ended in a 1-1 draw. Thus, it is expected that the equality will be maximum and that everything could be decided by details. Within the entity, there was no clear preference regarding the opponent, although it is true that there were divisions in the locker room.

Julio Maldonado, better known as Maldini, has made his prediction regarding this duel. He insists that Bellingham's absence in the first leg is a significant loss for Ancelotti's team. He also recalls that Atlético is capable of pushing Madrid to the limit.

He assures that the reigning European champion is better in attack and believes that the return leg at the Metropolitano could be key. "My favorite to win the Champions League is Madrid. I was impressed by the match they played against City," he stated.

Thus, he has given the merengue team a 60% chance to advance to the next round, while he gives the colchoneros a 40% chance. 

Decisive Month

Ancelotti's coaching staff emphasizes that the team is improving significantly during the last few matches. The Reggiolo coach believes they have found the key and that the play is starting to be what many expected. 

Thus, the Chamartín fans, who are enjoying their team, hope it continues to be so during the upcoming matches. It is an important month, and the squad must rise to the occasion.