Bellingham’s (sanctioned) absence will be important. It is Real Madrid with players in a lot of experience. They know how to play these

Real Madrid might be favorites both for their Champions League round of 16 tie against crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid but also for the competition as a whole. However, their next step towards the final in late May will surely be all the harder without Jude Bellingham.

There is no doubt that refereeing decisions have played a clear role as Real Madrid have dropped points in their last three games.The Merengues have had to contend with several penalties not given, a

Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham is suspended for the Champions League round of 16 first leg against Atlético Madrid.

Real Madrid hosts Atletico at the Santiago Bernabeu in the last 16 first leg, with the return at the Metropolitano stadium across town on March 12.

Jude Bellingham was shown a straight red card for foul and abusive language in Real Madrids 1-1 draw with Osasuna and received a two-match ban; the Spanish federation rejected an appeal to reverse the ban,