Real Madrid secured a narrow 2-1 victory over city rivals Atlético Madrid in their Champions League last-16 first-leg clash at the Santiago Bernabéu.
By Aniket Chakraborty
Mar 6, 2025
Rodrygo continued his Champions League heroics, scoring the opener in the fourth minute with a brilliant left-footed strike past Jan Oblak.
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Julián Álvarez equalized for Atlético before half-time, showcasing why Simeone fought so hard to sign the Argentine forward last summer.
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Brahim Díaz restored Real Madrid's lead against the run of play with a mesmerizing dribble that left Atlético defenders bewildered.
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Image credit | @Brahim | X
The contrasting sideline styles of managers were evident: Simeone frantic and constantly in motion while Ancelotti remained calm with occasional moments of animation.
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Rodrygo's consistent Champions League excellence has silenced debates about him potentially making way for Mbappé in the starting lineup.
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Luka Modric, even at 38, transformed the game when he came on as a substitute, providing control and confidence to his teammates.
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All three goals were so exceptional that world-class goalkeepers Courtois and Oblak were left completely helpless despite their abilities.
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Álvarez has now scored twice at the Bernabéu in just seven months at Atlético, with 22 goals across all competitions this season.
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The tie remains open heading into the return leg at the Metropolitano on March 12, with Atlético still having a chance to advance.