Atletico Madrid defeated 10-man Real Madrid 2-1 in a dramatic La Liga derby on Sunday, dealing another blow to Jose Mourinho’s side in the title race.
The victory moved Atletico up to second place, five points behind leaders Barcelona and one point ahead of Real Madrid, who suffered their second defeat of the campaign.
Huijsen Red Card Changes the Game
The match changed early in the second half when Dean Huijsen was sent off after pulling down Giuliano Simeone inside the penalty area.
Following a VAR review, the referee showed Huijsen a red card and awarded Atletico a penalty. Alejandro Grimaldo stepped up and confidently converted from the spot to put Atletico ahead.
Cagey First Half in Madrid Derby
The first half was a tense and physical affair, with neither team able to create many clear-cut opportunities.
One of the major talking points came when Jude Bellingham was involved in a challenge with Atletico defender Cristian Romero. Bellingham was initially booked, but after a VAR review, the referee cancelled the yellow card and instead cautioned Romero.
Real Madrid were also frustrated after Lee Kang-in appeared to make a heavy challenge on Federico Valverde shortly before half-time without being penalised.
Despite the presence of attacking stars such as Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe and Bellingham, Madrid struggled to make an impact in the opening 45 minutes.
Atletico Double Their Lead
Mourinho responded to Huijsen’s dismissal by making two changes, replacing Vinicius Junior and Arda Guler with Yan Diomande and Antonio Rudiger.
However, Atletico extended their advantage in the 59th minute.
Canada international Jonathan David finished off a low cross from Giuliano Simeone to make it 2-0. The goal was David’s third in three matches and put Atletico firmly in control.
Courtois Keeps Real Madrid Alive
Atletico had chances to put the game beyond doubt, but Thibaut Courtois produced an excellent save to deny Julian Alvarez.
Ibrahima Konate also made an important contribution, reacting quickly to head Grimaldo’s effort away from the goal after the ball rebounded from the post.
At the other end, Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak denied Yan Diomande and Bellingham as Real Madrid searched for a way back into the contest.
Rudiger Pulls One Back Late
Real Madrid eventually found a lifeline in the closing stages when Antonio Rudiger headed Bernardo Silva’s cross beyond Oblak.
The late goal gave Madrid hope of completing a comeback, but Atletico held firm to secure all three points.
The defeat leaves Real Madrid six points behind Barcelona, while Atletico moved into second place after an important derby victory.