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#2 Central midfield battle
The return of Luka Modric from injury will be a huge boost for Real – they will finally be able to name their first-choice XI in the Champions League this season. With Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez likely to line up alongside the Croatian, it will be interesting to see how Atlético can cope with the passing between them. Although the home side have their own central midfield pairing of Gabi and Tiago, who have been excellent this season, neither are players you would call visionary footballers.
Throughout all their encounters against Real this season, Simeone's men have shown a willingness to be physical and, at times, bully the midfielders in possession of the ball. With Modric and Rodriguez back in the side, the visitors will have the option of not merely passing out of midfield, but also dribbling out if necessary. And that is something which might prove crucial if the hosts aren't able to get a handle on the situation.
Despite their dominance this season, the midfield battle is by no means a foregone conclusion and it will certainly be interesting to see how that pans out. For that will decide the outcome of the clash between the reigning Spanish and European champions.
