Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid Tips & Predictions - BTTS backed in blockbuster R16 clash

The 239th edition of the Madrid derby promises to be another electrifying showdown, but it could prove tough to split these teams after 90 minutes in the opening leg. Indeed, the last three meetings between these sides have ended in a 1-1 draw. Furthermore, the last nine encounters have seen both sides find the back of the net. With this in mind, we're backing BTTS - Yes as our best bet for this game, with a smaller stake on another share of the spoils.

Going back further, seven of the last eight meetings have actually ended in a draw after 90 minutes. The most-recent clash was a 1-1 draw at the Bernebau last month in La Liga, with Julian Alvarez putting Atletico in front via the penalty spot before Kylian Mbappe equalised in the second stanza.

After an indifferent league phase in which they lost to the likes of Lille, Liverpool and AC Milan, Real were forced to qualify for the Champions League R16 the hard way.

However, it might have been what Real needed to really kickstart their UCL title defence, with the Spanish giants rising to the occasion and completely dismantling Manchester City 6-3 over two legs.

It's not been smooth sailing in La Liga either for Carlo Ancelotti's side - they come into this encounter having lost 2-1 against Real Betis this past weekend, which allowed Atletico to climb above them on the ladder.

Kylian Mbappe has scored in three of Real's five UCL home games this season and was also on target against Atletico last month.

It's been a superb season for Atletico, who have shaken their defensive persona and transformed into a great attacking side, both domestically and in Europe.

Only two teams scored more goals than Atletico during the league phase of the UCL, with the team winning their last five games to earn automatic qualification into the R16.

Atletico are unbeaten in 25 of their last 26 games in all competitions, with their 1-0 victory over Bilbao this past weekend seeing them leapfrog Real into second spot on the La Liga ladder, just one point behind leaders Barcelona.

Angel Correa could be one to watch for Atletico - he's already netted three times on the road this UCL campaign.