The derby threatens to open the floodgates of crisis for Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid

Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid will face off in their first derby of the 2026-2027 season on Sunday evening at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium. This match holds special significance for both teams, not only because of the competition for points in the seventh round of La Liga, but also because of its timing just before an international break of nearly three weeks . Both teams are aware that a loss could be costly, especially since the losing side will find themselves in a long period without competitive matches, potentially increasing the pressure on players and coaches and subjecting them to greater criticism . Real Madrid and Atlético are both looking for a win after an inconsistent start to the season. While each team has achieved good results in some matches, they have also dropped points and delivered performances that have failed to impress their fans in others . Real Madrid enters the match eager to respond strongly to the criticism leveled at their recent form, while Atlético Madrid aims to capitalize on playing at home and secure a victory that would give them a significant boost before the international break . Diego Simeone and Jose Mourinho are keenly aware of the importance of the match, especially as both managers have faced criticism in recent weeks. The Atletico Madrid coach said, "We're used to the negativity of so many people," referring to the criticism his team has been receiving . Meanwhile, Mourinho spoke about the atmosphere surrounding Real Madrid, saying, "It's becoming increasingly difficult to hear anything positive about Real Madrid," a message reflecting the pressure Los Blancos are under before the derby . The match comes before a long international break, during which most of the players from both teams will leave to join their national teams. Simeone and Mourinho will use the upcoming period to work with their non-international players and prepare for the resumption of La Liga and the Champions League . Therefore, each manager wants to enter the break with a victory that will provide a sense of calm, rather than spending nearly three weeks under the pressure of criticism, especially since a loss in a match of this magnitude could amplify discussions about the team's problems during the break . Atletico Madrid have enjoyed a strong home record in recent years, with Real Madrid failing to win at the Wanda Metropolitano since 2022 – a run the home side will be keen to maintain . "We need the fans, they will be there," Simeone said before the match, referring to the crucial role Atletico supporters are expected to play in the derby . Mourinho, meanwhile, will be hoping to break this streak, drawing on his past experience against Simeone, having previously defeated the Argentine coach in La Liga . Real Madrid also possess a potent attacking force, with Kylian Mbappe and John Bellingham both in fine form, while Mourinho will be hoping for more from Vinicius Junior. Atletico, for their part, will be hoping that Julian Alvarez can deliver the performances their fans expect .