Synopsis: A Thrilling Copa del Rey Derby Clash Between Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid Concludes with Atlético’s Triumph

Date:

January 20, 2024

Venue:

Metropolitano Stadium, Madrid, Spain

Competition:

Copa del Rey Round of 16

Teams:

Atlético Madrid vs. Real Madrid

Score:

Atlético Madrid 4-2 Real Madrid (after extra time)

The highly anticipated Copa del Rey derby match between Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid unfolded as a captivating spectacle, culminating in a dramatic 4-2 victory for Atlético Madrid after extra time. The encounter, held at the packed Metropolitano Stadium, witnessed a series of pulsating moments, tactical battles, and ultimately, a jubilant celebration for Diego Simeone’s team.

The match commenced with an electrifying pace, as both sides displayed an unrelenting desire to seize the initiative. Atlético Madrid, buoyed by their home crowd’s fervent support, gradually asserted their dominance, creating several promising opportunities. Their efforts were rewarded in the 39th minute when Samuel Lino capitalized on a defensive error by Real Madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger, tapping the ball into an empty net to give Atlético the lead.

However, Real Madrid, renowned for their resilience and fighting spirit, responded swiftly. Just before the halftime whistle, goalkeeper Jan Oblak inadvertently deflected a Luka Modrić free kick into his own goal, leveling the score and injecting a surge of energy into the visiting team.

The second half commenced with renewed intensity, as both teams traded blows in a relentless pursuit of the winning goal. In the 57th minute, another defensive lapse by Real Madrid proved costly. Eduardo Camavinga’s misplaced pass found its way to Álvaro Morata, who calmly slotted the ball into an unguarded net, restoring Atlético’s advantage.

Real Madrid, refusing to surrender, mounted a spirited comeback. In the 82nd minute, Joselu capitalized on a missed chance by Morata, heading home a cross from Jude Bellingham to equalize once again and force the match into extra time.

As the game entered its final stages, the tension and drama escalated. Atlético Madrid, driven by the desire to secure a quarterfinal berth, pressed forward relentlessly. Their persistence paid off in the 100th minute when Antoine Griezmann, with a moment of brilliance, intercepted the ball from Vinícius Júnior, surged into the penalty area, and unleashed a stunning shot past Andriy Lunin, giving Atlético the lead once more.

Real Madrid, despite their valiant efforts, were unable to find an equalizer. In the dying moments of extra time, Rodrigo Riquelme sealed the victory for Atlético with a composed finish, sending the home crowd into raptures and confirming their place in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals.

Post-Match Reactions:

Diego Simeone (Atlético Madrid Coach):

“It was an amazing goal, probably one of his best. We played a very good match and the players gave everything they had against a top opponent. It was a great match.”

Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid Coach):

“Lately, our games against Real have been very beautiful for the spectator. With a very high tempo, decided in extra time. Today it was our turn to win it. I’m happy for our fans and for Antoine Griezmann who scored a great goal.”

Key Moments:

• Samuel Lino’s clinical finish gave Atlético Madrid the lead in the first half.
• Jan Oblak’s own goal leveled the score just before halftime.
• Álvaro Morata restored Atlético’s advantage in the second half.
• Joselu’s header equalized for Real Madrid in the 82nd minute, forcing extra time.
• Antoine Griezmann’s superb solo effort broke the deadlock in extra time.
• Rodrigo Riquelme sealed the victory for Atlético Madrid in the dying moments.

The Copa del Rey derby clash between Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid lived up to its billing, delivering a thrilling spectacle filled with twists, turns, and ultimately, a memorable victory for Atlético Madrid. The result marked a significant triumph for Diego Simeone’s team, propelling them into the quarterfinals and extending their unbeaten run against their city rivals. Real Madrid, despite their valiant efforts, will be determined to bounce back and regain their winning ways in their pursuit of silverware this season.