Official: Real Madrid starting lineup against Atletico Madrid | UEFA Champions League | OneFootball

As Real Madrid get set to host neighbours Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie later tonight, Carlo Ancelotti has announced the starting lineup for the game.

The Merengues, who were beaten 2-1 by Real Betis this past weekend in La Liga, have made some changes to the team that started at Estadio Benito Villamarin.

The biggest news is that Federico Valverde starts despite there being some reservations about his fitness after he missed the last two matches due to a hamstring problem.

The Uruguayan international slots in at right-back, like he did in the two games against Manchester City, while he also captains the team tonight.

Meanwhile, Raul Asencio is also back in the team, replacing David Alaba as Antonio Rudiger’s partner at centre-back. Ferland Mendy lines up at left-back while Thibaut Courtois continues in goal.

With no Dani Ceballos (injury) and Jude Bellingham (suspension), Ancelotti has opted to replace them with Eduardo Camavinga and Brahim Diaz, respectively, leaving Luka Modric out. Aurelien Tchouameni is the third midfielder for Real Madrid.

Rodrygo Goes, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius Jr. continue as the attacking trio for the European champions.