Real Madrid secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash at the Santiago Bernabéu. The win ended Diego Simeone’s side’s impressive 10-match unbeaten run across all competitions and gave Los Blancos a slender lead heading into the second leg.
Rodrygo Fires Real Madrid Ahead Early
With the pressure on Carlo Ancelotti’s men to take the initiative against a typically resolute Atlético defense, Real Madrid wasted no time in breaking the deadlock. Just four minutes into the game, Brazilian winger Rodrygo produced a stunning solo goal.
Federico Valverde, making his 300th appearance for Real Madrid, played a well-weighted pass into the path of Rodrygo. The 23-year-old showcased his pace and footwork, cutting inside from the right flank before unleashing a thunderous left-footed shot into the top corner, leaving Atlético goalkeeper Jan Oblak with no chance.
Rodrygo finds the far corner
Alvarez with a terrific shot
Adeyemi on the half-volley
Trossard with a neat finishVote for your favourite @Heineken | #UCLGOTD
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 4, 2025
The early goal put Atlético on the back foot, forcing them to adjust their strategy and push forward. Simeone’s men responded well, with Giuliano Simeone wasting a golden opportunity to equalize when he lashed a shot wide from close range. The visitors began to find their rhythm, playing with more attacking intent, and their persistence was rewarded midway through the first half.
Julián Álvarez Levels with a Stunning Strike
Atlético Madrid’s equalizer came in spectacular fashion through Julián Álvarez. The Argentine forward showcased his strength and technique, outmuscling Eduardo Camavinga before unleashing a powerful right-footed shot that beat Thibaut Courtois and crashed in off the post.
The goal gave Atlético renewed confidence as they continued to press for a second. Rodrigo De Paul came close to giving the visitors the lead early in the second half, but Ferland Mendy was quick to react and block his attempt inside the box.
Brahim Díaz Restores Real’s Lead
Despite Atlético’s strong spell, Real Madrid regained their advantage in the 67th minute with a well-crafted goal. A slick passage of play down the left flank saw Vinícius Júnior and Ferland Mendy combine brilliantly before the ball fell to Brahim Díaz.
The Moroccan international displayed excellent dribbling ability to weave past Atlético’s defenders before calmly slotting the ball past Oblak to make it 2-1. The goal sparked renewed energy in the Real Madrid side, who then controlled possession and dictated the tempo of the game.
Real Madrid Dominate Final Stages
With the lead restored, Los Blancos played with renewed confidence, keeping Atlético pinned in their own half for long spells. Valverde and Toni Kroos dictated play from midfield, while Vinícius Júnior remained a constant threat down the left wing.
Despite their dominance, Real Madrid failed to create many clear-cut chances in the closing stages, with Atlético’s defense managing to limit further damage. The visitors struggled to mount any significant response, and the game ended with the home side holding a narrow but valuable first-leg advantage.
What This Result Means for the Second Leg
Real Madrid’s win puts them in a strong position ahead of the second leg, but the tie remains finely balanced. Atlético Madrid will take confidence from their performance, knowing that a one-goal deficit is far from insurmountable when they return to the Wanda Metropolitano.
For Atlético, it was a missed opportunity to extend their club-record run of six consecutive Champions League wins. Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s victory continues their remarkable record in European knockout fixtures, having now lost just one of their last 18 knockout matches in the competition.
With the second leg just eight days away, both teams will be looking to fine-tune their tactics as they prepare for another high-stakes showdown. Real Madrid have the advantage, but Atlético Madrid have the firepower and resilience to make it an unforgettable contest.
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