All or nothing. That's how things are until the end of the season for both Atletico Madrid and Deportivo.
The championship break has given the two teams time to reflect, recharge their batteries, collect themselves and
face the final phase of the season with a clear head:
No-one can afford to slip up.
In the case of the Colchoneros, not only did they abandon a great part of their hopes for the league title at
the Estadio de la Cermica, but they have also seen a revitalised Real Madrid challenge them for second place.
Bearing in mind there's a derby clash between the two sides next Matchday,
Simeone's team cannot afford another blip.
Their rivals, Deportivo, are even more desperate. After their pyrrhic point against Las Palmas in the Riazor,
and with Levante climbing away from the relegation zone, Clarence Seedorf and his team are in real trouble.
Seven points now separate them from survival, and they still haven't won a game under the orders of their
new coach.
Nevertheless, Deportivo will be hoping they repeat the fine performance they gave when the two teams met
earlier this season.
"We have the example of our first meeting this season when we played really well. In the end they beat us
thanks to a fine set-piece goal, but it was a close- run thing and there were few chances for either side. If we
can do that here then we should be able to do it there, too"
Neither Vitolo, who was sent off against Villarreal, or Griezmann, who saw his fifth yellow card will be available
for selection.
The absence of Atletico's top scorer, who's netted nine times in his last five outings,
could aid the Galician's cause.
Deportivo, however, have the worst defensive record in the league and will be without the suspended
Fernando Navarro.
Deportivo's first visit to the Wanda Metropolitano will be a dramatic affair.
The Colchoneros will be taking no prisoners.
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