Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
The match, held on March 4, 2025, showcased intense competition between the city rivals, with both teams delivering remarkable performances.
The game commenced with high energy, and it took only four minutes for Real Madrid to break the deadlock. Rodrygo Goes capitalized on a defensive lapse, delivering a powerful left-footed strike that found the back of the net, putting the hosts ahead early on.
Atlético Madrid responded with resilience, gradually gaining control of the midfield. Their efforts paid off in the 32nd minute when Julián Álvarez showcased his striking prowess.
After maneuvering past Eduardo Camavinga, Álvarez unleashed a stunning shot that soared into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with no chance and leveling the score at 1-1.
The second half began with both teams seeking to assert dominance. Real Madrid’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, made tactical adjustments, introducing Luka Modrić to bolster the midfield.
The decisive moment arrived in the 55th minute. Brahim Díaz, exhibiting exceptional skill, navigated through Atlético’s defense with a clever movement that didn’t require him to touch the ball, creating space for himself before slotting it past goalkeeper Jan Oblak. This goal restored Real Madrid’s lead at 2-1.
Following the goal, Atlético Madrid intensified their efforts, pressing forward in search of an equalizer. However, Real Madrid’s defense remained resolute, with center-backs Éder Militão and David Alaba effectively neutralizing Atlético’s attacking threats. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois also made crucial saves to preserve the lead.
Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory provides them with a slender advantage heading into the second leg at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.
Atlético Madrid, while facing a deficit, demonstrated their ability to challenge Real Madrid and will aim to overturn the result on home turf
