Real Madrid vs Atletico: Los Blancos Win Dramatically Despite Playing With 10 Men

Real Madrid secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid in the 2025/26 LaLiga Matchweek 29 clash at Santiago Bernabeu on Monday, March 23, 2026, early morning WIB.

The Spanish capital derby was fiercely contested from start to finish. Vinicius Junior shone as the star with two goals, while Federico Valverde contributed the other goal.

Atletico initially took the lead through Ademola Lookman and later equalized via Nahuel Molina.

These additional three points propelled Real Madrid to second place in the temporary Standings with 69 points, trailing leaders Barcelona by four points. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid dropped to fourth place with 57 points.

The match began at a high tempo. Madrid threatened early through Dani Carvajal's second-minute chance, saved by Atletico Goalkeeper Juan Musso.

Atletico responded with Marcos Llorente's eighth-minute opportunity, denied by Real Madrid keeper Andriy Lunin.

The visitors broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute. Lookman capitalized on Giuliano Simeone's pass to give Atletico a 1-0 halftime lead.

Real Madrid rallied after halftime. Vinicius equalized from the penalty spot in the 52nd minute after Brahim Diaz was fouled in the box.

Just three minutes later, Madrid turned the game around 2-1. Valverde scored after dispossessing Jose Gimenez and firing home inside the area.

Atletico leveled again in the 66th minute through Molina's powerful long-range strike that beat Lunin.

Real Madrid regained the lead in the 72nd minute when Vinicius completed his brace with an individual effort in the penalty area, making it 3-2.

Tension escalated after Madrid were reduced to 10 men in the 77th minute when Valverde received a red card for a harsh foul on Alejandro Baena.

Despite their numerical advantage in the closing stages, Atletico failed to capitalize. Real Madrid held on to secure the victory until the final whistle.