Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Thibaut Courtois and Jude Bellingham will be available for the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 clash against Atletico Madrid. The return of the two key players comes as a major boost for Los Blancos, who are looking to secure their place in the quarter-finals after winning the first leg 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Courtois, who missed Real Madrid’s recent 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano due to discomfort in his right patellar tendon, is expected to be fully fit in time for the crucial encounter. Speaking to the club’s official website, Ancelotti assured fans that the Belgian goalkeeper’s condition is improving.
“Courtois has a little problem, but I think he will recover quickly for Wednesday,” Ancelotti stated.
Meanwhile, Bellingham, who has been a standout performer for Real Madrid this season, is also set to make his return to the starting lineup. The English midfielder has been instrumental in the team’s success since joining from Borussia Dortmund, contributing goals and assists while adding creativity to the squad. Ancelotti expressed his satisfaction with Bellingham’s condition ahead of the Atletico Madrid fixture.
“Bellingham has come back in good shape,” the Italian coach said. “His performance was good. I really liked the first half against Rayo because we pressed high. We could have made it 3-0 after stealing possession, we played with intensity and quality. In the second half, we dropped our level.”
Real Madrid’s first-leg victory over their city rivals has given them the advantage heading into the second leg, but Ancelotti knows that facing Atletico Madrid away from home will be a difficult challenge. Diego Simeone’s side will be looking to overturn the deficit in front of their home fans, making it a high-stakes battle between two of Spain’s fiercest rivals.
With Courtois returning, Madrid will have their first-choice goalkeeper back between the posts, providing additional confidence to the defensive line. The Belgian shot-stopper has been a vital figure for the club in previous Champions League campaigns, delivering match-winning performances on the biggest stage. His return could be a crucial factor in Madrid’s ability to withstand Atletico’s attacking threats.
On the other hand, Bellingham’s presence in midfield will give Madrid an extra edge. The Englishman has been one of the standout players in Europe this season, demonstrating his ability to control games, create scoring opportunities, and find the back of the net when needed. His return will bolster Madrid’s attacking play and provide a much-needed link between the midfield and forward line.
Ancelotti’s men know that a draw will be enough to secure passage to the next round, but they are unlikely to play for a stalemate. Madrid’s philosophy has always been to go for the win, and with players like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Bellingham in attack, they have the firepower to trouble Atletico’s defense.
Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, will be eager to make a statement at home. Simeone’s side has been strong at the Metropolitano Stadium this season, and they will rely on their passionate supporters to create a hostile atmosphere for the visitors. Antoine Griezmann, Álvaro Morata, and João Félix will be key players in Atletico’s attempt to overturn the first-leg deficit.
Real Madrid’s experience in knockout competitions gives them an advantage, and with Ancelotti at the helm, they have a manager who knows how to navigate high-pressure situations. The Italian coach has won multiple Champions League titles and understands the importance of balancing attack and defense in crucial games.
Ancelotti is expected to field his strongest lineup, with Courtois returning to goal, a solid defensive pairing of Antonio Rüdiger and Éder Militão, and a midfield trio that could include Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Federico Valverde. In attack, Vinícius and Rodrygo will be Madrid’s main threats, using their pace and skill to break down Atletico’s defense.
The upcoming match will be another chapter in the long-standing rivalry between the two Madrid clubs. Over the years, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have faced off in several memorable Champions League encounters, including two finals in 2014 and 2016, both won by Los Blancos. This latest meeting promises to add another exciting episode to their history.
For Madrid fans, the return of Courtois and Bellingham signals confidence ahead of the decisive clash. Courtois’ ability to make crucial saves and Bellingham’s dynamic presence in midfield will provide Madrid with the necessary tools to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
With the match set to take place on Wednesday, anticipation is building among supporters of both teams. Atletico will be determined to overturn the deficit and cause an upset, while Madrid will be focused on sealing their spot in the next round and continuing their pursuit of another Champions League title.
As the game approaches, Ancelotti’s side will need to remain disciplined and composed, knowing that one mistake could change the course of the tie. The battle at the Metropolitano
