Los Colchoneros will be aiming to deny Real in their quest for a trophy for the second time this campaign having clinched the Spanish Super Cup earlier in the season at the expense of their arch rivals. Atletico's task will be made easier with the two goal cushion they enjoy thanks to goals from Raúl García and Giménez in the first leg but Diego Simeone 's men will have to show the same courage and desire if they are to make it to the next round of the tournament.
Maintain the physicality
Atletico have won all of the last three matches between the two sides and much of this has been down to their physical dominance over their counterparts, something which proved to be Madrid's achilles heel in the last match as well. Raul Garcia and Gabi in particular were outstanding and the midfield duo ensured that Madrid's attacking players did not have much room to operate. Should Atletico once again physically outplay their opponents, they will have a good chance of keeping their lead intact and making it to the next round of the Copa del Rey.
Hit back on counter attacks
It is inevitable that Carlo Ancelotti will field a very attacking side on Thursday which will test the Atletico defence to their limits. Madrid's full backs are better known for their attacking ventures than their defensive capabilities something which might bode well for Simeone and Atletico.
Even though Carvajal and Marcelo are a huge asset to the team when they are attacking, shunning their defensive responsibilities makes the team more vulnerable to counter attacks and this is one area Atletico can exploit. The pace of Antoine Griezmann who has been a revelation for the defending Spanish champions, can hurt Real Madrid in this case. Should Atletico get an early goal, this will put the tie beyond reach for Los Blancos.
Protect the flanks
A wonderful performance against Madrid was followed by a disappointing defeat at the hands of Barcelona and Atletico will want to ensure they donot make the same mistakes in the Copa Del Rey tie. Whereas Atleti did crowd up the midfield in the match against Barcelona they failed to protect the flanks giving Messi and Neymar too much room to operate. They paid the price for doing so as both men caused havoc in the opposition half and played instrumental roles in the victory.
For Real Madrid Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale will be operating on the wings and it is important that the two are kept under control if Atletico are to get anything out of the match.
Use Mario Mandzukic's strengths
The Croatian is a doubt for the match on Thursday but should he regain fitness, the former Bayern man should walk straight into the starting line up. Mario Mandzukic offers another dimension to Atletico's game and can hold the ball really well higher up the field.
Given that 54% of Atletico's goals in La Liga have come from set pieces as per Whoscored.com, this is another area Atleti could really benefit from Mandzukic presence who can add to his formidable tally of 15 goals in his debut season for the club and put the tie to rest.
Contain Isco
The former Malaga man can cause a lot of panic if allowed the freedom to operate and must be kept in control. Di Maria's departure has left the team lacking a midfielder who can break between the lines, Isco is one player who is capable of doing that. Luka Modric's injury has resulted in the Spaniard being deployed in a more deeper role, from where he has produced exemplary performances and Real Madrid will be hoping he can produce one on Thursday.
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