La Liga

Real Madrid's Alvaro Morata likely to miss derby vs. Atletico with injury

Published Dec. 9, 2016 1:06 p.m. ET

Alex Dowd

Alvaro Morata is set to miss time for Real Madrid after tests revealed a grade 2 muscle injury on his right hamstring. The timeline for the injury is pending evaluation, but it's estimated that he'll miss a month for Real Madrid. The Spanish forward played 26 minutes in Tuesday's friendly against England after being substituted on in the second half.

The timing is unfortunate for Real Madrid, as the in-form forward, who's scored in his past three La Liga matches, is almost certain to miss this Saturday's derby clash against Atletico. Furthermore, Zinedine Zidane's usual leading striker, Karim Benzema, is a fitness doubt as well. Benzema hasn't played since the beginning of November with a hip injury.

Every match is important in the title race, but Saturday's derby against Atletico has that something extra. Real Madrid are currently atop the standings with 27 points, while Atletico are fourth with 21. With Barcelona sitting in second with 25 points, each point is precious.

Real Madrid will still be favorites to win the derby clash, but they'll likely be another man short for the quest.

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