Atlético Madrid stunned rivals Real Madrid with a 5-2 victory in the first Madrid derby of the La Liga season, marking the first time in 75 years that Atleti scored five goals against Los Blancos. The high-scoring clash at the Estadio Metropolitano also ended Real’s perfect start to the campaign.
Atlético Madrid vs Real Madrid: A Derby for the History Books
Saturday’s Madrid derby turned into a classic as fans witnessed seven goals, the first time such a tally has been recorded in the fixture since 1963. Atlético’s five-goal haul was their biggest against Real Madrid in La Liga since the famous 6-3 win in November 1950.
The match began with Robin Le Normand’s header giving Atleti the lead, only for Real Madrid to respond through Kylian Mbappé and Arda Güler. Alexander Sorloth then struck just before halftime, with his equalizer continuing the trend of headers dominating Atlético’s recent goals against their city rivals.
Julián Álvarez Inspires Atlético Madrid to Victory
In the second half, Julián Álvarez delivered a standout performance, becoming only the second player this century to score both a penalty and a free-kick in the same match for Atlético Madrid. His double put Los Colchoneros firmly in control.
Substitute Antoine Griezmann sealed the emphatic 5-2 victory with a stoppage-time goal, sparking wild celebrations inside the Metropolitano. The result also extended Atlético’s unbeaten run in Madrid derbies to six, equalling their best-ever streak under Diego Simeone.
Simeone’s Emotional Reaction and Player Response
After the match, Diego Simeone was visibly emotional, even shedding tears on the touchline when his side netted their fourth goal. Speaking afterward, he admitted:
“There are a lot of emotions inside. The season started in a difficult way, and there’s a lot of effort from many people that you don’t see. This has been wonderful.”
Star man Julián Álvarez also called the derby “very special,” expressing his joy alongside the fans. He emphasized that the win was not just about points but about hurting a direct rival.
On the other hand, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso urged his team to improve, stating that “the team lacked intensity” and must “compete better” in big matches if they are to stay in the title race.
What the Result Means for the La Liga Table
The defeat ends Real Madrid’s unbeaten run and opens the door for Barcelona to move top of La Liga if they beat Real Sociedad on Sunday. Atlético Madrid, meanwhile, climbed back into the Champions League spots after what has been a shaky start to the season.
Currently sitting on just their third league win, Atlético are showing signs of resurgence under Simeone’s leadership. The result could prove pivotal as the season unfolds.
What’s Next for Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid?
Both clubs now turn their attention to the Champions League group stage. Real Madrid face a long trip to Kazakhstan to play Kairat Almaty, while Atlético Madrid welcome German side Eintracht Frankfurt to the Metropolitano.
Fans will be eager to see if Atlético can build on this historic derby triumph and whether Real Madrid can bounce back from their first major setback of the season.
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