Focus on Vinicius, Griezmann in Madrid derby

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti labelled Vinicius Junior the most decisive player in the world this week -- but on Saturday in La Liga he faces another contender, Atletico Madrid's Antoine Griezmann.

Although the France forward finished runner-up at the World Cup and Atletico are struggling in fourth place, Griezmann is in sparkling form.

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Diego Simeone's side are four points clear of Real Betis in fifth and their only goal now is to secure Champions League qualification for next season.

A win over Madrid would brighten Atletico's mood, but the Rojiblancos have not won in the league at the Santiago Bernabeu since 2016.

"We've got to win, whatever happens, and end our poor run at their ground," Griezmann told La Liga.

Griezmann has directly participated in 45 percent of Atletico's league goals, with seven strikes and seven assists.

Madrid, by contrast, remain in the Champions League and winger Vinicius played a key role with a brace as they thrashed Liverpool 5-2 at Anfield on Tuesday.

The clash with Atletico brings back bad recent memories for Vinicius, after an effigy of the Brazilian winger was hung from a bridge outside Madrid's training ground before they clashed in the Copa del Rey in January. Vinicius scored in Madrid's 3-1 win in that game. All eyes will be on Vinicius and Griezmann as the two skilful, creative forwards try to inspire their sides to derby victory.