Madrid derby will be intense, promises Atletico's Reinildo

Real Madrid calling the shots. Atletico de Madrid had the stomach for a fight at kick-off, but once they conceded, they would simply wilt. Rich in history, the derbies became embarrassing.

They even put up a signboard -- Wanted: a worthy rival for a decent derby. Well, Diego Simeone's arrival at Atleti changed everything, including the derby. Now, it's a no-holds-barred contest, among the most watched football games across the world.

"This will be an interesting, intense match on Sunday," Atleti left-back Reinildo Mandava told TOI during an online interaction with select media from across the world. "We are playing a great team with great players and champions of the league. We know what we have to do and are working really hard to make sure that we get all three points, which are important for us in (the race for) LaLiga (title).

This won't be easy for anyone." Reinildo should know what a derby looks and feels like. The Mozambique defender joined Los Colchoneros during the January transfer window last year and featured in the solitary goal win against Real Madrid at the Metropolitano. It came late in the season when their city rivals were already crowned champions, but since that loss Carlo Ancelotti's side have not tasted defeat.

If Real Madrid arrived as LaLiga champions during their trip to the Metropolitano the last time in May, they will arrive with another enviable record on Sunday. Ancelotti's all-conquering side is the only team in Europe's top five leagues with a perfect record and have already opened a five-point lead over their eternal city rivals. "We know it's a great team with great players and great coach, probably the favourites, but are we worried? Surely not.