Atl. Madrid vs Real Sociedad

Saturday's clash at the Metropolitano is a dress rehearsal for next month's Copa del Rey final. Atlético Madrid and Real Sociedad will be sizing each other up, adding extra spice to this Matchday 27 encounter. Third-placed Atlético have 51 points and the league's second-best defence with just 23 goals conceded. Julián Álvarez snatched a dramatic 94th-minute winner against Real Oviedo last time out, though Pablo Barrios and Johnny Cardoso are both ruled out through injury. The attacking duo of Alexander Sørloth and Ademola Lookman should lead the line again. La Real sit eighth on 35 points but arrive on a high after booking their Copa final spot with a gritty win over Athletic Club. Takefusa Kubo misses out with a hamstring injury, while Brais Méndez returns from suspension. Captain Mikel Oyarzabal will be the key creative threat for the visitors. Simeone's side have lost just once in 18 meetings with Real Sociedad, and home advantage should prove decisive. Our prediction: 2-1