Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid Review
Real Madrid leads Atlético Madrid 2-1 on aggregate in their closely contested Champions League last 16 matchup, following an exciting game at the Santiago Bernabéu that ended Atlético’s 10-match unbeaten streak in all competitions under Diego Simeone. The pressure was on Real to take control against Atlético’s well-structured defense, and they quickly took the lead just four minutes into the match when Rodrygo scored. Federico Valverde, celebrating his 300th appearance for Los Blancos, assisted the Brazilian, who made a swift run from the right, cut into the box, and fired an unstoppable left-footed shot past Jan Oblak.
The visitors responded positively, with Simeone skillfully maneuvering past Brahim Díaz and sending a ball across the goal that Valverde cleared. This foreshadowed what was to come, as Julián Alvarez equalized with a finish that was arguably even better than Rodrygo’s initial goal, maneuvering past Eduardo Camavinga and striking a right-footed shot past Thibaut Courtois that hit the post and went in.
After the break, Simeone’s team maintained their confidence, but Ferland Mendy successfully blocked Rodrigo De Paul’s attempt after a well-placed cross from Alvarez. However, Real Madrid was the next to score, with Díaz finding the net after a beautifully executed play down the left involving Mendy and Vinícius Júnior. The two combined effectively to create an opportunity for the Moroccan international, who skillfully navigated into the box and delivered a precise finish past Oblak.
Real Madrid regained their dominance in the match after scoring, however, there were few additional chances to score. This result prevented Atlético from achieving a sixth straight UCL win and breaking their club record for consecutive victories in the tournament. They have now only triumphed in three out of 11 encounters with their rivals in UEFA competitions, but they still have a chance to turn the tie around in the next leg. On the other hand, Real holds the advantage, having lost just one of their last 18 European knockout matches.
