The Madrid derby moves to the European stage with a high-stakes clash in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid will face off this Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. ET (Miami time) at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, in a crucial match that could define the future of both teams in the competition. The second leg of this tie will be played a week later at the Estadio Cívitas Metropolitano.

Raúl Asencio vs Julián Álvarez

• One of the most anticipated matchups in this tie will be the clash between Raúl Asencio and Julián Álvarez, two young players who represent the present and future of their respective teams. The rise of Raúl Asencio at Real Madrid, an academy product who has earned a starting spot thanks to his speed, personality, and character, reflects the passage of time at the white club. In contrast, Julián Álvarez, who arrived at Atlético Madrid with high expectations, has surpassed all predictions, becoming an offensive leader with 21 goals in 40 matches. Asencio’s challenge will be to stop Álvarez, who has taken charge of Atlético's attack in an impressive way.

Vinícius Júnior vs Marcos Llorente

• Another key duel will be the battle between Vinícius Júnior and Marcos Llorente. Vinícius, who has had an outstanding season, will face Llorente, one of the most solid defenders at Atlético Madrid. While Vinícius has shown his ability to assist and create plays, he still needs to score more goals against Atlético. Marcos Llorente will be a crucial piece in Atlético's defense, a physically imposing player and an expert at marking the Brazilian. Llorente has the experience and physicality needed to try to stop Vinícius, who will look to shine in a tie that could define his season.

Mbappé vs Le Normand

• The matchup between Kylian Mbappé and Robin Le Normand promises to be one of the most exciting. Mbappé, Real Madrid's top scorer this season, will face the solid French defender from Atlético Madrid, Le Normand. Mbappé’s ability to move constantly and create space will be a challenge for Le Normand, who will have to stay alert to the Parisian striker's movements. Le Normand’s aerial ability will also be tested, as Mbappé doesn't hesitate to take advantage of any opportunity to score. This duel could be crucial for the development of the tie, with Mbappé looking to continue his goal-scoring streak and Le Normand trying to neutralize his threat.

Courtois vs Oblak

• The showdown between the two best goalkeepers in the world, Thibaut Courtois and Jan Oblak, is set to be one of the most anticipated. Both are key players for their teams, with interventions that save points and matches. Courtois, despite Real Madrid's defensive instability, continues to show his quality with crucial saves. On the other hand, Oblak has returned to his best form after some moments of doubt and was the hero in the last derbi against Real Madrid. The battle between the posts will be essential in determining which team advances to the next round.

Camavinga vs De Paul

• Finally, the midfield battle between Eduardo Camavinga and Rodrigo De Paul will be crucial. Camavinga, who has had ups and downs this season, will look to seize this opportunity to reaffirm himself, while De Paul, who has become a leader within Atlético Madrid, will need to lead his team in this critical area of the field. De Paul has grown in responsibility and offensive ability, while Camavinga will have the chance to redeem himself and contribute to his team in a high-stakes duel.