A test for the Vicente Calderón

There will be football at the Calderón for the first time since last month’s ultras incident and the shadow cast by that shameful event means that today’s meeting between Atlético and Villarreal, which has been declared high risk, will be under the microscope. Two weeks have passed, but it seems like a lifetime: everything has changed and those by the Manzanares should demonstrate today that it is for the best. There are already defined issues (multiplied security measures, control of banners and verbal abuse) and others that remain to be seen: the reaction of the Fondo Sur stand after the ejection of the Frente Atlético and the reaction of the rest of the fans over what might come from that part of the stadium. If everyone has learned the lesson, they will enjoy a great match.

Two in-form teams are set to meet. Both have qualified from their groups in Europe, both are on track in the Copa del Rey and both have won their past three games in La Liga. Atlético will draw level on points with second-placed Barça if they win and they will aim to complete a flawless 2014 at the Calderón, where they have not lost in the league all year long (12 victories and five draws).

Simeone can once again call upon Miranda, who is likely to return to the starting XI despite Giménez’s explosion during his absence through injury. Raúl García has been fixed as a starter ahead of Griezmann, who has been a substitute in the four matches played in the last 12 days. Tiago, who was rested against Juve, will recover his central midfield spot, with Koke, Arda and Mandzukic to take charge of the goal and its surroundings. Asenjo, an old friend, will have trouble.

For Villarreal, the virus that affected six players on Friday proved to be a false alarm and Marcelino could show off his young jewel Vietto, who is shielded by a lot of talent: Uche, Jonathan Dos Santos, Cheryshev and Bruno. And keep an eye on their full-backs, Mario and Jaume Costa, who have the soul of a winger. A great game, a great level, and hopefully, a great atmosphere.

from Últimas noticias | Diario AS http://ift.tt/1BKlWUb

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