The tension is already building ahead of the Champions League last-16 clash between Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid, with seven key players walking a fine line.
If Antonio Rüdiger, Eduardo Camavinga, Luka Modrić, Endrick, Aurélien Tchouaméni, José María Giménez, or Ángel Correa pick up a yellow card in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, they will be ruled out of the return leg at the Metropolitano.
Both Madrid clubs head into the tie with players already carrying two bookings from the competition.
Real Madrid, having played 10 matches due to their playoff battle with Manchester City, has five stars at risk, while Atletico, who advanced directly to the last 16, has two.
With referee Clément Turpin in charge, every challenge will be scrutinized as players look to avoid suspensions that could shape the second leg.
Adding to the drama, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti is also on thin ice. Another caution for him would see him banned from the touchline for the return fixture.
Meanwhile, Diego Simeone has just one booking to his name so far, meaning he has a little more breathing room.
With so much at stake, expect a fiercely contested first leg as both teams battle for an advantage—while keeping a close eye on the referee’s notebook.
🚨 BREAKING: The yellow cards in the Champions League will be cancelled AFTER the quarterfinals.
— Soccer Central (@soccer_central1) March 3, 2025
Real Madrid could lose these players for the 2nd leg vs Atletico Madrid:
• Rüdiger
• Modrić
• Camavinga
• Tchouaméni
• Endrick
• (Ancelotti) pic.twitter.com/YMla8aUhMT
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