Replaced by Dani Ceballos at half-time in tonight's Madrid Derby, a fresh Gareth Bale injury may play into the Republic of Ireland's hands ahead of next month's Nations League tie.
Meeting for the second time this season, although Atletico Madrid could not replicate the memorable win recorded in the UEFA Super Cup earlier this year, Diego Simeone's side will be undoubtedly pleased with tonight's 0-0 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu.
With Barcelona drawing 1-1 last night away to Athletic Bilbao, it means the red-and-white half of Madrid remain within two points of top spot in La Liga.
It was not such a good night for Real Madrid, and the potential loss of the Welshman Bale will make Julen Lopetegui's life a little harder.
Having enjoyed a strong start to the first post-Cristiano Ronaldo season, Bale began showing signs of discomfort around the 40-minute mark in tonight's derby match - a groin strain believed to be the source of his discomfort.
Reports in the Spanish paper Marca suggest that this fresh injury could be enough to keep Bale out for a short spell of time.
Tests will inevitably follow to determine the extent of his injury, but all early indications suggest that he will not feature for at least a week. The news is not good for Wales either, as he may have to miss his country's mid-October match against Spain.
Shortly after Ryan Giggs' side take on Spain in an international friendly, they will travel to Dublin where they face an Ireland side in desperate need of a big result on 16 October.
Leaving a little over two weeks for Bale to resume fitness, Ireland will undoubtedly be pleased with any potential weakening of the Welshman's unique talents.
