Whenever a crucial tie between bitter rivals comes, both managers want to have all of their players available for such a clash. This time, Real Madrid and Atlético will have their fair share of absentees, but which of them will prove to be defining in the outcome of this tie?
With the semi-final between the Spanish capital giants finishing next week at Vicente Calderón Stadium, tonight's game may very well be the defining moment of each of these team's season. Let's have a look at what they're facing prior to the beginning of their game.
Real Madrid
Los Blancos face this clash with two major absences: Gareth Bale and Pepe. Both players are considered crucial for Zinedine Zidane, especially the Welshman. Bale hasn't enjoyed his best season with Los Blancos, raising questions about whether Zidane should start him whenever he's fit or if he should give way for Isco, Asensio or Lucas Vázquez, who have usually taken his spot in the lineup. On the other hand, Pepe's experience and set-pieces skills will be missed on Tuesday night, especially since his last game was against Atlético less than a month ago, where he had the honor of scoring for Los Blancos.
Fabio Coentrao is also a doubt, but the Portuguese hasn't been a regular member from Los Blancos' squad, so it's safe to say that his presence won't be missed in this game.
Pepe may have played his last game for Real Madrid, as transfer rumors have him leaving the Spanish capital this summer.
Atlético Madrid
If Zidane needs to reboot his Starting XI, coach Diego Simeone will have the same problem. Sime Vrsaljko, Miguel Angel Moyá and Juanfran are all out of this game, with the right back's absence being crucial for Simeone. Juanfran has earned a spot in the Spanish National Team, and his presence will be sorely missed by Los Colchoneros' supporters.
The right back wanted to play against Los Blancos, especially because his penalty miss ended up costing Atlético the UEFA Champions League title last year.
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