Real Madrid enter one of the most vital Madrid Derbies in years eight points behind city rivals Atletico Madrid.

Rarely has the rojiblancos found themselves so far ahead of Real at this stage of the season but their success this season is thoroughly deserved.

With much-coveted striker Falcao on fire this season and manager Diego Simeone having created a well-drilled outfit.

But at the Bernabeu - which hosts today's derby - Jose Mourinho's team is in turmoil.

Poor form

If they fail to beat Atletico they can consider themselves well and truly out of the title race, as Barcelona could go 14 points clear if they do the business at home to Athletic Bilbao tonight.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been in poor form, having failed to score in the league since the start of November. However he has a great record against Atletico with five goals in his last two derbies.

But on head-to-head form Real has the psychological advantage as Atletico have not beaten them for over decade - since 1999 in fact.

But a template has been found to counter Real Madrid's tactics - the counter-attack. La Liga teams have increasingly sat back and forced Mourinho's team to take the initiative which does not play to his team's strengths. 

Kick off is at 9pm.