Madrid prepares for a heated derby as Real Madrid hosts Atlético de Madrid on Sunday, March 22, 2026, in a crucial La Liga matchup. The match, set to kick off at 21:00 CET (3:00 PM EST), takes place at the Santiago Bernabéu and carries significant weight in the title race, particularly after Barcelona secured a win against Rayo Vallecano.
Both teams are entering this contest with momentum, having recently progressed in the UEFA Champions League. Real Madrid eliminated Manchester City, while Atlético Madrid overcame Tottenham Hotspur. This derby represents a chance for both sides to solidify their form and gain a psychological edge as the season progresses. The stakes are high for Real Madrid, currently four points behind Barcelona in the league standings, making a victory essential to maintain their title aspirations.
Confirmed Starting Lineups
Real Madrid has announced its starting XI for the match. Manager Álvaro Arbeloa has opted for Lunin in goal, replacing the injured Courtois. Carvajal also returns to the starting lineup, taking Trent’s place. The full lineup is as follows: Lunin, Carvajal, Rüdiger, Huijsen, Fran García; Tchouameni, Valverde, Thiago; Güler, Vinicius, and Brahim.
The confirmed Real Madrid starting XI is: Lunin, Carvajal, Rudiger, Huijsen, Fran, Tchouameni, Valverde, Thiago, Güler, Vinicius, Brahim.
Atlético de Madrid’s starting lineup is still to be confirmed (TBC), but is expected to feature Musso; Molina, Giménez, Hancko, Ruggeri; Giuliano, Llorente, Cardoso, Baena; Julián, Sorloth.
How to Watch
Fans can catch the action live on DAZN La Liga in Spain and ESPN Deportes in the United States. For viewers in the US, ESPN+ will also be streaming the match. The game is scheduled for 21:00 CET, which translates to 3:00 PM EST for those on the East Coast of the United States.
Date: 03/22/2026
Time: 21:00 CET, 03:00pm EST
Venue: Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain
TV: DAZN La Liga (Spain), ESPN Deportes (USA)
Streaming: ESPN+ (USA)
This match promises to be a fiercely contested affair, with both teams eager to claim bragging rights in the Madrid derby. The return of key players and the high stakes involved suggest a captivating encounter for football fans worldwide.
The intensity of the rivalry is expected to translate onto the pitch, creating a stellar contest defined by fine margins. Real Madrid will be looking to leverage the return of attacking options, while Atlético Madrid will aim to exploit their gritty defensive style.
Following this crucial La Liga clash, both teams will turn their attention to their upcoming schedules. Real Madrid faces FC Bayern in the Champions League, while Atlético Madrid will prepare for their next league fixture. The outcome of this derby could significantly impact the remainder of the season for both clubs.
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