Atletico Madrid are set to face an in-form Las Palmas at Wanda Metropolitano this Sunday, aiming to regain momentum in La Liga.
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The home side, currently fourth in the standings with 20 points from 11 matches, find themselves trailing league leaders Barcelona by 10 points. Diego Simeone’s team, with a record of five wins, five draws, and just one defeat, are eager to capitalize on home advantage and put recent disappointments behind them.
Match Preview
The Colchoneros have experienced a mixed season so far, marked by their struggle for consistency. After enduring back-to-back losses – a 3-1 Champions League defeat to Lille followed by a narrow 1-0 loss to Real Betis in La Liga – they managed to bounce back with a 2-0 victory against Vic in the Copa del Rey. Julian Alvarez was the hero of the match, netting both goals to ensure progression to the competition’s second round.
Despite their cup success, Atletico’s Champions League campaign has been far from smooth, with two defeats in three matches, placing them under pressure. Their overall form across competitions reflects only two wins in their last seven games, adding importance to Sunday’s fixture.
Nevertheless, history is on Atletico’s side. The capital club enjoyed a 5-0 rout in their last home encounter with Las Palmas during the 2023-24 season. They will be determined to replicate such dominance and secure three vital points.
Las Palmas’ Form and Resilience
Contrasting Atletico’s patchy form, Las Palmas arrive with newfound confidence. Head coach Diego Martinez has guided his side to a three-game winning streak across all competitions, including consecutive La Liga victories. A thrilling 3-2 win over Valencia on October 21 marked their first league triumph, followed by a narrow 1-0 win against Girona, thanks to an Alex Munoz strike. In the Copa del Rey, Las Palmas showcased their attacking prowess with a 7-0 demolition of Ontinena.
This resurgence has revitalized Los Amarillos, who currently occupy 18th place but are playing their best football since their 2018 top-flight campaign. Their defensive record against Atletico is troubling, with 18 goals conceded in their last four league defeats to them. However, they do take heart from their last meeting at Estadio Gran Canaria, where they stunned Atletico with a 2-1 victory.
Team News
Simeone will likely rotate from his midweek Copa lineup, with key players such as Koke, Antoine Griezmann, Jan Oblak, Rodrigo De Paul, Jose Gimenez, and Samuel Lino set to return. Injuries remain a concern with Cesar Azpilicueta, Clement Lenglet, Pablo Barrios, Marcos Llorente, and Robin Le Normand sidelined. Thomas Lemar’s involvement is uncertain after being substituted against Vic. Alvarez and Griezmann are expected to lead the attack, relegating Alexander Sorloth to the bench.
Las Palmas, meanwhile, remain without Marvin Park and Adnan Januzaj due to injury but otherwise boast a strong squad. Martinez is anticipated to stick with the lineup that secured victory against Girona, led by Fabio Silva. Jaime Mata’s four-goal display in the Copa del Rey might earn him consideration but may not be enough for a starting role.
Predicted Lineups
Atletico Madrid (possible XI): Oblak; Molina, Witsel, Gimenez, Reinildo; De Paul, Koke, Gallagher, Lino; Alvarez, Griezmann
Las Palmas (possible XI): Cillessen; Rozada, Suarez, McKenna, Munoz; Essugo, Campana; Fuster, K Rodriguez, Moleiro; Silva
Match Prediction
Despite Las Palmas’ recent surge, Atletico’s depth and experience should help them navigate this challenge. While Las Palmas could pose a threat and find the net, Atletico are expected to leverage their quality to edge out a crucial victory at home.
