Real Madrid faces one of the most crucial games of the Champions League season. Tonight, in Bergamo, they will play for qualification against a top-condition Atalanta. Gasperini's team arrives on the back of an impressive streak, having won 12 of their last 13 games.
Real Madrid has had a difficult start to the group stage with three defeats in the first five games. As a result, now there's no margin for errors. The match against Atalanta has become a real final.
Vinícius: the Big Doubt
One of the most talked about topics in the hours before the match was Vinícius Júnior's situation. The Brazilian, who was recovering from a hamstring injury, was one of the big questions.
The big question was whether he would be fit to start. According to journalist Edu Aguirre in El Chiringuito, Vinícius successfully passed the physical test he underwent in yesterday's training session. Despite having only completed one full training session with the team in Madrid, the striker has shown that he is ready to start.
Vinícius's Key Role
Carlo Ancelotti has opted for Vinícius's speed and dribbling skills for today's match. The Italian coach believes that the Brazilian is essential to counter Atalanta's play style, which bases its defense on one-on-one duels all over the field. In this type of match, Vinícius has a key role and his presence in the starting eleven will be decisive for Madrid's aspirations.
Ancelotti has full faith in the striker, even though his physical condition is not ideal. Real Madrid needs its best players at 100%. Although Vinícius is just short of strength, his ability to create chances and unbalance the rival defense could be decisive in this anticipated final.
A Life-or-Death Game
Real Madrid currently occupies the last place that gives access to the next round of the Champions League. However, a defeat tonight would leave the team with little chance of progressing.
Group A is looking increasingly complicated lately. Ancelotti's men urgently need a win to face the upcoming matches against Salzburg and Stade de Brest with more confidence.
The Pressure is Increasing
Kylian Mbappé is still in the process of recovery and Jude Bellingham is in good shape. Now Vinícius becomes a key piece alongside the Englishman to win the match.
The Brazilian, with his ability to make the difference, has the responsibility of leading a Real Madrid that can't afford any more mistakes. With just a few hours to go before the match, the team's future in the Champions League is at stake.