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Madrid giants Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid will renew their historic rivalry on Sunday in a blockbuster derby in La Liga.
Los Blancos are currently running away with the league, sitting eight points clear at the top of the league standings and ten ahead of the Rojiblancos. Carlo Ancelotti's swashbuckling side are on a nine-game winning run across competitions. They haven't lost in 12 games since a 2-1 reverse at Espanyol in October.
Meanwhile, Atletico, the reigning champions, have stuttered lately, with erratic results wreaking havoc on their title defence. Another setback on Sunday will be a real blow. However, they haven't won in the Madrid derby in seven attempts since 2016.
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Nevertheless, we have a crunch game on our hands to spice up the weekend. On that note, here are five key players who could shape the outcome of the 228th El Derbi Madrileno:
#5 Casemiro (Real Madrid)
As far as holding midfielders go, very few can hold a candle to Casemiro. He been at the heart of Real Madrid's immense success in the last few years. He offers balance to the side, and is a strong connection between defence and attack, while playing a crucial role in transitions.
A crunch tackler with impeccable vision and a penchant for amazing long-range strikes, the Brazilian has three assists for the season. He could be vital in breaking down Atletico's attacking play, with his ball-winning ability and close man-marking.
#4 Thomas Lemar (Atletico Madrid)
His start to life in Madrid after arriving from Monaco wasn't plain-sailing, but Thomas Lemar has truly come of age this season. In fact, many Atletico faithful rate him as their best player right now, with the Frenchman consistently delivering top-notch performances.
A prolific dribbler with strong passing ability and set-piece prowess, Lemar has scored thrice and made two assists in seven starts this season.
#3 Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)
It's been a season of revelation for Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior, who's finally produced the form that was always expected of him. It's been a long wait, but he'd even agree that it's better late than never.
The Brazilian has struck 12 goals and made seven assists across competitions from 22 games this season. That includes ten goals in La Liga, the most in the division after only Karim Benzema (12).
Buzzing with energy, confidence and class, Vinicius has truly come of age for Los Blancos this season. He has become one of their best and most key players. Atletico will have their hands full going up against him.
#2 Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid)
It wasn't the most ceremonious return to Madrid for Atletico's prodigal son. Antoine Griezmann rejoined the club following two difficult seasons with Barcelona, where he struggled to replicate his best form.
However, lately, he has started to find his feet, contributing five goals in their last six league games. Griezmann has also registered four goals and one assist in the Champions League.
Griezmann is no stranger to Madrid derbies, having tormented Real Madrid in the past. In fact, six of his eight goals against the team have come in this fixture, while also making four assists.
#1 Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)
Karim Benzema has been the best La Liga player of the season thus far, and it's without question or doubt. The Real Madrid No.9 has been in a league of his own with 12 goals (the most in the league) and seven assists (the joint-most in the league).
His consistency is remarkable, while his rich vein of form has re-established him among the best strikers. Benzema, in fact, achieved his highest finish in the Ballon d'Or (fourth) this year.
The Frenchman is also a Madrid derby veteran. Since 2009, he has played in the fixture 36 times, winning on 16 occasions, and contributing ten goals (scored six and assisted four) against Atletico Madrid.
