Real Madrid edges Atletico 3-2 in intense La Liga derby match

Real Madrid Narrowly Beats Atletico Madrid in Madrid Derby

Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 3-2 win over Atletico Madrid in Sunday’s Spanish capital derby, keeping their side within four points of La Liga leaders Barcelona. The match was marked by several key moments, including Vinicius Jr.’s two goals and Nahuel Molina’s thunderous strike.

Atletico took the lead in the 33rd minute through Ademola Lookman, who capitalized on a slick counterattack involving Matteo Ruggeri and Giuliano Simeone. Real Madrid equalized in the 52nd minute when Vinicius Jr. scored from the penalty spot after David Hancko’s clumsy trip on Brahim Diaz.

Federico Valverde then put Real ahead with a goal three minutes later, before Molina silenced the Bernabeu stadium with a 30-meter strike in the 66th minute. Vinicius Jr. restored Real’s lead six minutes later with a solo effort, and despite Atletico pressing, Real held firm.

Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa praised his side for showing “pure Real Madrid mentality” to emerge with the difficult win. Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone expressed disappointment that his team did not come away with more from the game, citing defensive lapses and missed opportunities in attack.

The match was also marked by other notable results, including Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano at Camp Nou, where Ronald Araujo scored the winner in the 24th minute. Alaves secured a stunning 4-3 victory over Celta Vigo, while Athletic Bilbao edged Real Betis 2-1 in their first match since coach Ernesto Valverde announced his departure.

These results bring Real Madrid within four points of La Liga leaders Barcelona, while Atletico Madrid remain in contention for European qualification.

Source: Al Jazeera