Derby Drama as Atlético Triumphs 5-2
Julián Álvarez delivered a masterclass as Atlético Madrid routed fierce rivals Real Madrid 5-2 in a pulsating Madrid derby on Saturday. The Argentina striker grabbed a brace and pulled focus away from Kylian Mbappé, who briefly gave Madrid the lead, and offered a timely redemption after last season’s controversial double-kick penalty that fueled Atlético’s season-ending heartbreak in the Champions League.
Mbappé’s strike sparks quick reaction from Atlético
Real Madrid moved ahead with Mbappé finding the net, but Álvarez answered almost immediately. He converted a penalty to put Atlético ahead 3-2 early in the second half and then capped the display with a curling free-kick that left the Madrid goalkeeper with little chance.
First-half momentum and the turning point
Robin Le Normand and Alexander Sorloth struck in the first half to give Atlético the initiative, signaling their intent to press from the outset. Antoine Griezmann came off the bench late to help seal the result, adding a final layer of comfort for Diego Simeone’s side.
Strategic battle and standings shake-up
Diego Simeone’s Atlético handed Xabi Alonso his first defeat of the season after Madrid had started with six straight wins in La Liga and their Champions League opener. The victory lifts Atlético to fourth, reshaping the race for the top of the table as Barcelona could leapfrog Madrid with a win at Real Sociedad on Sunday.
Implications for the title race and beyond
Beyond the scoreline, the derby underscored Atlético’s renewed energy under Simeone and Álvarez’s growing influence up front. Real Madrid now faces the challenge of regrouping quickly as they chase consistency and attempt to reclaim momentum at the business end of the campaign.
