Madrid: Vinícius Jr struck a brilliant brace as Real Madrid came from behind to defeat Atlético Madrid 3–2 in a pulsating derby at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday, keeping Álvaro Arbeloa’s side within four points of La Liga leaders Barcelona.
The victory trimmed the gap to leaders FC Barcelona to four points after a pulsating night at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Atlético struck first against the run of play when Ademola Lookman converted from close range following an inventive backheel by Giuliano Simeone, son of manager Diego Simeone.
The visitors took their lead into the break, leaving Madrid with work to do.
The hosts responded strongly in the second half. Vinícius levelled from the penalty spot after Brahim Díaz was fouled by David Hancko.
Moments later, Federico Valverde capitalised on a defensive lapse to put Madrid ahead, slotting past goalkeeper Juan Musso.
Atlético refused to back down. Nahuel Molina produced a spectacular 25-yard strike into the top corner to restore parity and briefly silence the Bernabéu. But Madrid’s response was swift — Vinícius curled home the winner six minutes later after collecting a clever pass from substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold, continuing his red-hot form with a 10th goal in 11 matches.
Madrid were forced to dig deep late on after Valverde received a straight red card, shifting momentum in Atlético’s favour. Julián Álvarez came closest to equalising when his effort struck the post, but the hosts held firm to secure their first league derby win over Atlético since September 2022.
The result was made even more significant after Barcelona’s earlier 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano had extended their lead. Madrid’s dramatic triumph keeps the title race alive and injects fresh momentum into their pursuit of the summit.
Source: BBC
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