Real Madrid edged past city rivals Atletico Madrid with a hard-fought 2-1 victory in their Champions League last-16 first-leg encounter at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday.
Rodrygo Goes fired Los Blancos ahead early, but Julian Alvarez responded with a stunning equaliser for Atletico. However, Brahim Diaz sealed the win for the 15-time champions, giving Carlo Ancelotti’s side a slight upper hand ahead of next week’s second leg at the Metropolitano.
Madrid’s Fast Start and Atletico’s Response
Rodrygo wasted no time, scoring just four minutes in after a brilliant pass from Fede Valverde. The Brazilian winger, known for his European exploits, clinically finished past Jan Oblak for his fifth goal of the tournament.
Atletico gradually grew into the game, with Alvarez stepping up to deliver a moment of magic. The Argentine forward weaved past Eduardo Camavinga and curled a spectacular effort past Thibaut Courtois to make it 1-1 before halftime.
“We didn’t get stage fright after conceding so early,” said Atletico boss Diego Simeone. “We grew into the game and started playing more in their half.”
Brahim Diaz Delivers the Winner
Madrid reclaimed the lead in the 55th minute through Brahim Diaz, who left Jose Gimenez floored before slotting home a composed finish. The midfielder’s crucial goal, in place of the suspended Jude Bellingham, delighted the home crowd.
Despite Atletico’s late push, with Antoine Griezmann and Gimenez going close, Madrid held firm. Luka Modric came off the bench to add control, and the hosts nearly extended their lead in stoppage time, but Oblak denied the veteran midfielder.
Second Leg Awaits
Atletico will now look to overturn the deficit at home next week, knowing the winner will face either Arsenal or PSV Eindhoven in the quarterfinals.
“We’re alive in the tie,” said Atletico midfielder Marcos Llorente. “We have to correct our mistakes and go for it in the second leg.”