Zidane makes honest admission about Atletico's title hopes ahead of Madrid Derby

December 12, 2020 By Ali M.

Topics: Zinedine Zidane, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Madrid Derby, La Liga

Los Blancos are gearing up to host Simeone's side later today in the highly-anticipated Madrid Derby, with the visitors boasting a six-point lead over their bitter rivals.

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has opened up about the Spanish Primera Division title race ahead of their highly-anticipated showdown with Atletico Madrid, with the French tactician admitting that their neighbors and bitter rivals are the favorites to win La Liga this season.

Los Blancos' title defense has had a few hiccups so far, picking up 20 points from a possible 33 after suffering three defeats and two draws in the first 11 games. As a result, Ramos and Co. find themselves six points adrift of the top, a position occupied by none other than Simeone's side.

Los Rojiblancos are yet to lose a game this season, winning eight and drawing the remaining two after 10 games, hence their lead at the top. It should also be noted that they have played one game less than Real Madrid and could thus move nine points ahead of the defending champions.

Zidane was asked about the title race and whether their city rivals are the favorites to Spanish top-flight for the first time since 2013/14. The Frenchman's gave a straightforward reply, saying (as per Goal): "Yes, for sure.

"That's what they're showing on the pitch. They're doing things well and competing. They've always been competitive and they're first right now.

"What interests us is what we're going to do. It'll be a good game of football and one that fans have marked in the diaries and one that the players want to play.

"What we want in each match is to show what team we are, without thinking about whether we'll win the league title. We want to win each match. We're competitive."

Many feel that this fixture could make or break Real Madrid's title defense. While they are only six points behind the table-toppers, a deficit they could slash to a mere three points with a win, defeat would leave them nine points adrift.

One thing working in the home side's favor is their record against Atletico. While Joao Felix and Co. are on a seven-game winning streak in La Liga, Simeone's men have not won once in their last eight encounters against Los Merengues. Will this unbeaten run come to an end for Real Madrid? Time will reveal the answer.