Atlético Madrid claimed Madrid derby bragging rights with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at the Metropolitano, with Dean Huijsen’s second-half red card proving the decisive turning point.
The result extended Atlético’s impressive home record against their city rivals to four consecutive unbeaten LaLiga derbies (W3, D1) and lifted Diego Simeone’s men above Real Madrid into second place.
Cagey First Half at the Metropolitano
For all the anticipation surrounding the Madrid derby, clear-cut opportunities were scarce during the opening 45 minutes.
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was eventually called into action when he pushed away Lee Kang-In’s dangerous delivery towards the far post. Still, much of the entertainment came from intense midfield battles rather than chances on goal.
One particularly heated moment involved Jude Bellingham and Cristian Romero. Bellingham was initially booked following their challenge, but after a VAR review, the yellow card was switched to Romero.
Lee also survived scrutiny following another strong challenge as tensions continued to rise between the Spanish capital rivals.
Dean Huijsen Red Card Changes the Derby
The match exploded into life after half-time.
Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen was sent off after pulling back Giuliano Simeone, leaving the visitors with ten men at a crucial stage of the contest.
Following VAR intervention, Atlético were awarded a penalty, and Álex Grimaldo calmly converted past Courtois to give the hosts the breakthrough.
It was Grimaldo’s second successful penalty in three matches and completely changed the complexion of the derby.
Jonathan David Doubles Atlético’s Advantage
Atlético wasted little time exploiting their numerical advantage.
Jonathan David made it 2-0 before the hour mark, meeting Giuliano Simeone’s driven delivery and sliding the ball beyond Courtois.
The goal also marked an impressive personal milestone, as David became the first Atlético Madrid player in the 21st century to score in each of his opening three LaLiga appearances.
With Real Madrid down to ten men and Atlético holding a two-goal advantage, Simeone’s side appeared firmly in control.
Rüdiger Gives Real Madrid Late Hope
Real Madrid refused to surrender.
Antonio Rüdiger headed home from Bernardo Silva’s free-kick to reduce the deficit to 2-1 and transform the closing stages into a nervous affair for the home supporters.
Los Blancos pushed for an equalizer, but Atlético held firm under pressure to secure a memorable derby victory.
Atlético Madrid Climb Above Real Madrid
The final whistle sparked celebrations around the Metropolitano as Atlético completed a valuable 2-1 LaLiga victory over Real Madrid.
More importantly, the three points lifted Simeone’s side into second place, while Real Madrid dropped to third following their second league defeat of the campaign.
For Atlético, extending their unbeaten home league run against Real Madrid to four derbies adds another layer of satisfaction to an already significant victory.
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Final Verdict
Atlético Madrid 2-1 Real Madrid will be remembered as a derby dramatically altered by Huijsen’s dismissal.
Atlético capitalized ruthlessly, with Grimaldo converting from the penalty spot before Jonathan David doubled the advantage. Rüdiger’s late header ensured a tense finish, but Simeone’s side survived to secure three valuable points and Madrid derby bragging rights.
