UEFA Super Cup preview: Madrid rivals contest their 1st piece of silverware in new season

For the first time ever the UEFA Super Cup is a cross-city derby and we are backing the two sides from Madrid to play out another low scoring game.

TIME

Kick off: 20:00 CET

Date:  Wed, 15-Aug-18

PROBABLE LINE-UPS

Real Madrid Team News

Luka Modric shouldn't be rushed back for Real Madrid after recently returning from his post-World Cup break.

Keylor Navas will continue in goal despite the recent signing of ex-Atletico goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Marco Asensio and Gareth Bale are expected to feature in the wider areas, with Isco also supporting Karim Benzema up top.

Álvaro Odriozola and Jesús Vallejo are both injured but have travelled with the squad.

Atletico Madrid Team News

Diego Simeone is likely to start with the same team that he put out against Inter last time out.

Thomas Partey and Rodri will battle it out to feature in central midfield alongside Saul.

Thomas Lemar is expected to get his debut in Estonia, but Vitolo could feature to offer a more solid option.

WHAT THEY SAY

Real have won the Champions League three years in a row and Lopetegui is aware of the expectations.

"There is not more pressure because it is against Atletico Madrid, it is a final and a trophy which means that we will give everything, we are obliged to win everything," he told UEFA.

"The club gives us what we need so that we can do our work in the best manner and so we are privileged because of this.

"We will try to be a good team, make the most of what we have collectively and individually for the collective good. We will have a clear style, defined, which makes the most of the individuals that we have."

Diego Simeone's side were beaten in the 2014 and 2016 finals by Real and also lost in the semi-finals in 2017.

But they won the Europa League last season and have strengthened over the summer with the signings of Thomas Lemar, Gelson Martins, Rodri, Nikola Kalinic and Santiago Arias.

"We have a new group with a lot of fresh arrivals, who will each need to adapt," said Simeone. "That will take time. We have also seen some leaders leave the dressing-room so others must now step up.

"What you can't say is just because you have some big names you have a great team. It's the strength of the group that makes a strong squad.

Focus

Julen Lopetegui's side have gained some momentum recently in their friendly preparations, with Gareth Bale getting among the goals as Real Madrid try to quickly adjust to life without Cristiano Ronaldo.

Los Blancos have lifted the UEFA Super Cup in the last two seasons, beating Sevilla and Manchester United in 2016 and 2017, respectively.

Atleti are unbeaten against Real Madrid in three of their last four competitive attempts, with Simeone's side a tough adversary for Lopetegui to come up against so early in his reign.