Five talking points ahead of the Champions League final

27 May 2016 18:04

Real Madrid take on neighbours Atletico in the Champions League final on Saturday night.

Here, Football.co.uk looks at five key talking points ahead of the big match in Milan.

BATTLE OF THE BOSSES

Diego Simeone and Zinedine Zidane met many times as players, with the latter coming out on top more often than not. But on the only occasion they clashed as coaches, Simeone guided Atletico to a 1-0 win, inflicting Real's first defeat since Zidane took over from Rafael Benitez. Can he repeat the trick and secure a first European crown for Atletico?

CLASH OF STYLES

It's Real's Galacticos versus Atletico's street fighters. It's defence against attack. It's Cristiano Ronaldo, who has scored 50-plus goals in six consecutive seasons, taking on a belligerent Atletico side who have kept 35 clean sheets this term. It's the ultimate culture clash and promises to be an enthralling showdown.

REVENGE FOR 2014?

Atletico were seconds away from a shock win over their illustrious neighbours in the final in Lisbon two years ago when Sergio Ramos equalised in the third minute of stoppage time. Real then steamrollered their neighbours in extra-time with Gareth Bale, Marcelo and Cristiano Ronaldo on target in a 4-1 win. But Atletico have not lost any of their last six meetings against Real in any competition.

GOOD GRIEZMANN

Atletico's chief goal threat will be France international Antoine Griezmann. When these sides met in Lisbon Diego Costa and David Villa were the main men up front. But since their departure Griezmann has stepped up to the plate and hit 44 La Liga goals in two seasons. Can he fire Atletico to glory in Milan?

MAN IN THE MIDDLE

British clubs may have once again failed to each the showpiece but at least an English referee will be flying the flag. Mark Clattenburg showed some big-game nerves when he failed to play a couple of advantages for Crystal Palace in last week's FA Cup final against Manchester United. How will he cope in a derby with Europe's biggest prize on offer?

Source: PA-WIRE