The Spanish capital hosted the most highly anticipated fixture of the final La Liga weekend before the international break, as Atlético Madrid faced Real Madrid in the 244th edition of the Madrid derby. Diego Simeone’s side eventually came out on top, securing a 2–1 victory over their city rivals.
The Madrid derby remained evenly contested until the closing stages of the first half, with neither side managing to register a shot on target. Real Madrid improved slightly towards the end of the half and looked more dangerous, but they were unable to turn their pressure into a goal, with the two sides going into the break level at 0–0.
Unlike the first half, the second period began with a major turning point. In the 52nd minute, Dean Huijsen was sent off following a VAR review after his foul on Giuliano Simeone. Referee Miguel Ángel Ortiz Arias awarded Atlético a penalty, and Alex Grimaldo stepped up in the 53rd minute to convert from the spot and give the hosts the lead.
Giuliano Simeone, the son of Atlético head coach Diego Simeone, then completed an impressive performance by turning provider. In the 59th minute, he set up Jonathan David, who found the back of the net to double Atlético’s advantage.
Atlético came extremely close to extending their lead in the 66th minute, but Thibaut Courtois kept Real Madrid alive with two crucial saves in quick succession. The Belgian goalkeeper first denied Cristian Romero’s header before Ibrahima Konaté blocked Julián Álvarez’s follow-up effort just before it crossed the line.
Real Madrid had their best opportunity of the second half in the 77th minute, when substitute Yan Diomande, who had replaced Vinícius Júnior, found himself one-on-one with Jan Oblak. However, the experienced Atlético goalkeeper stood his ground and made the save.
Despite being down to ten men, Real Madrid increased the pressure in the final stages and eventually found a way back into the game. Antonio Rüdiger headed home in the 89th minute to pull one goal back and give the visitors hope of a late comeback.
However, Atlético held on through the remaining minutes to secure a crucial 2–1 victory and claim the bragging rights in Madrid.
The win moved Atlético Madrid onto 16 points and into second place in La Liga, replacing Real Madrid, who remained on 15 points.
