Atletico Madrid vs Osasuna Prediction and Tips

As Atlético Madrid prepares to host Osasuna on January 13, 2025, at the Estadio Metropolitano, fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling encounter between two La Liga sides with contrasting fortunes this season.

Team Form and Performance

Atlético Madrid, under the astute management of Diego Simeone, has been in scintillating form, boasting a remarkable 13-match winning streak across all competitions. This impressive run has propelled them to second place in La Liga, just two points behind leaders Real Madrid, with a game in hand. A victory against Osasuna would not only extend their winning streak to 14 matches—a new club record—but also see them reclaim the top spot in the league.

In contrast, Osasuna has struggled in recent weeks, enduring a six-match winless run in La Liga that has seen them slip to 11th place in the standings. Their last league victory dates back to November, and they will be desperate to halt their slide and climb back into contention for European qualification spots.

Head-to-Head Record

Historically, Atlético Madrid has dominated this fixture, winning five of the last six league meetings between the two sides. However, Osasuna will draw confidence from their stunning 4-1 victory at the Estadio Metropolitano in the penultimate round of the 2023-24 season—a result that ended Atlético’s unbeaten home run and served as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of football.

Team News and Tactical Analysis

Atlético Madrid

Diego Simeone faces a selection dilemma in defense, with key center-back José María Giménez missing the final training session due to a muscle strain sustained in the recent match against Barcelona. His availability remains uncertain, and his absence could force Simeone to adjust his defensive setup. The rest of the squad is fit and available, providing the manager with ample options across the pitch.

Atlético is expected to line up in their customary 4-4-2 formation, with Jan Oblak guarding the goal. The defense may feature Nahuel Molina or Marcos Llorente at right-back, Robin Le Normand and Clément Lenglet as the central pairing, and Javi Galán at left-back. In midfield, Giuliano Simeone and Conor Gallagher are likely to occupy the flanks, with Pablo Barrios and Rodrigo De Paul orchestrating play from the center. Upfront, the dynamic duo of Antoine Griezmann and Julián Álvarez will lead the attack, aiming to penetrate Osasuna’s defense with their creativity and finishing prowess.

Osasuna

Head coach Vicente Moreno is contemplating a tactical shift to counter Atlético’s attacking threat. With the team missing key players like Bryan Zaragoza and Iker Muñoz due to injuries, Moreno has experimented with a 5-4-1 formation in training sessions, aiming to bolster the defense and provide stability.

Sergio Herrera is expected to start between the posts, with a back five comprising Jesús Areso and Abel Bretones as wing-backs, and a central trio of Alejandro Catena, Jorge Herrando, and Flavien Enzo Boyomo. The midfield quartet will likely include Rubén García, Lucas Torró, Jon Moncayola, and Aimar Oroz, providing a blend of creativity and defensive solidity. Ante Budimir is set to lead the line as the lone striker, tasked with holding up play and capitalizing on any opportunities that arise.

Key Players to Watch

Antoine Griezmann (Atlético Madrid)

The French forward has been instrumental in Atlético’s attacking endeavors this season, contributing both goals and assists. His ability to find space between the lines and link up play makes him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Griezmann’s experience and composure in front of goal could be pivotal in breaking down Osasuna’s rearguard.

Jon Moncayola (Osasuna)

A versatile midfielder, Moncayola’s work rate and tactical awareness are crucial to Osasuna’s midfield balance. His ability to disrupt the opposition’s play and initiate counter-attacks will be vital if Osasuna are to challenge Atlético’s dominance in the center of the park. Moncayola’s leadership on the pitch will also be essential in rallying his teammates against formidable opponents.

Match Prediction

Given Atlético Madrid’s imperious form and home advantage, they are favorites to secure all three points. However, Osasuna’s potential tactical adjustments and their previous success at the Estadio Metropolitano suggest they should not be underestimated. A closely contested match is anticipated, with Atlético likely edging it by a narrow margin.

Betting Tips

• Atlético Madrid to Win: Considering their current winning streak and home advantage, backing Atlético for a victory seems a prudent choice.
• Under 2.5 Goals: With Osasuna likely to adopt a defensive setup, the match could see fewer goals, making the under 2.5 goals market appealing.
• Both Teams to Score – No: Atlético’s solid defense and Osasuna’s recent struggles in front of goal suggest that a clean sheet for the home side is a plausible outcome.

Conclusion

The clash between Atlético Madrid and Osasuna promises to be an intriguing encounter, with both teams having much at stake. While Atlético aims to continue their pursuit of the La Liga title, Osasuna will be eager to reverse their fortunes and climb the league table. Fans can look forward to a match filled with tactical battles and individual brilliance on display.