Real Triumphs in Thrilling City Derby Against Atletico with Alaba Benched
Real Madrid overturned a halftime deficit to beat Atletico Madrid 3-2 at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu. David Alaba remained on the bench throughout the game.
Match overview
Earlier, Barcelona had beaten Rayo Vallecano 1-0 at home. Ronald Araujo headed in from a corner in the 24th minute.
That victory was Barcelona’s fifth straight league win. Their lead over Real briefly extended to seven points.
At the Bernabeu, Atletico took the lead through Ademola Lookman shortly after the half hour mark. The teams went into halftime with Atletico ahead 1-0.
Real responded after the break with two quick goals. Vinicius Junior converted a penalty in the 52nd minute.
Federico Valverde scored three minutes later to give Real the lead. Valverde had been in strong form coming into the match.
Late drama and decisive moments
Nahuel Molina struck a long-range equaliser into the top corner in the 66th minute. Andrij Lunin, standing in for the injured Thibaut Courtois, could not reach it.
Vinicius then completed his brace with a solo run and finish in the 72nd minute. Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham entered as substitutes.
Valverde received a straight red card in the 77th minute for a reckless tackle on Alex Baena. Shortly afterwards, Julian Alvarez hit the post with a powerful attempt.
Outcome and context
The match finished 3-2 to Real, avenging a 2-5 loss last September. The win kept Real close to Barcelona in the title race.
The result was a Real triumph in a thrilling city derby, with David Alaba benched for the host side. Filmogaz.com covered the key moments.
Key facts
- Final score: Real Madrid 3, Atletico Madrid 2.
- Scorers: Vinicius Junior (52 pen, 72), Federico Valverde (55), Ademola Lookman (≈31), Nahuel Molina (66).
- Valverde was sent off in the 77th minute for a tackle on Alex Baena.
- Andrij Lunin started due to Thibaut Courtois’ injury.
- Ronald Araujo scored Barcelona’s winner earlier, header from a 24th-minute corner.
