Real Madrid Advances To Quarterfinals UCL

Atlético de Madrid 1-0 Real Madrid (Real Madrid win 4-2 on penalties)📅 Date: Wednesday, 12 March 2025🏟 Venue: Estadio Metropolitano, Madrid🏆 Competition: UEFA Champions League – Round of 16, 2nd Leg

Match Report

Real Madrid secured their place in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals after a tense penalty shootout victory over local rivals Atlético Madrid. Despite Atlético's 1-0 win on the night, which leveled the tie on aggregate, Los Blancos held their nerve in the shootout to triumph 4-2 and advance.

First Half

The match kicked off in dramatic fashion as Conor Gallagher put Atlético Madrid ahead inside the first minute. A defensive lapse from Real Madrid allowed Gallagher to pounce on a loose ball inside the box and fire past Thibaut Courtois, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

Atlético continued their early dominance, pressing high and forcing Real Madrid into mistakes. Antoine Griezmann and Álvaro Morata both had chances to double the lead, but Courtois stood firm. As the half progressed, Real Madrid gradually grew into the game, with Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Jr. leading their attacking charge. However, Atlético's defensive setup, anchored by José Giménez and Axel Witsel, successfully repelled the visitors' attacks.

Second Half

Real Madrid emerged from the break with renewed intent, controlling possession and looking to unlock Atlético's resolute defense. Their best chance of the half came in the 62nd minute, when Rodrygo's curling effort was brilliantly saved by Jan Oblak.

Atlético, meanwhile, continued to pose a threat on the counter, with Griezmann nearly sealing the tie in the 78th minute when his powerful strike rattled the crossbar. In the closing minutes, Real Madrid pushed for an equalizer but failed to break through, sending the match into extra time.

Extra Time

Both teams showed signs of fatigue in extra time, leading to a more cautious approach. Real Madrid enjoyed the bulk of possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances against a disciplined Atlético side. Eduardo Camavinga had a late opportunity for Real, but his shot from distance sailed over the bar. With no goals in extra time, the match proceeded to penalties.

Penalty Shootout

Real Madrid's experience and composure shone through in the shootout. Luka Modrić, Vinícius Jr., Dani Carvajal, and Rodrygo all converted their penalties for Los Blancos, while Antoine Griezmann and Saúl Ñíguez missed for Atlético, sealing their fate.

Key Statistics

• Possession: Atlético Madrid 44% - 56% Real Madrid

• Total Attempts: Atlético Madrid 17 - 10 Real Madrid

• Shots on Target: Atlético Madrid 8 - 3 Real Madrid

• Corners: Atlético Madrid 6 - 4 Real Madrid

• Fouls Committed: Atlético Madrid 11 - 16 Real Madrid

• Yellow Cards: Atlético Madrid 4 - 4 Real Madrid

Man of the Match

⭐ Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid) - The Belgian goalkeeper was the hero for Real Madrid, making crucial saves during regular time and stopping a penalty in the shootout.

What’s Next?

Real Madrid advance to the quarter-finals and continue their pursuit of yet another Champions League title. Atlético Madrid, despite a valiant effort, bow out of the competition, turning their focus to domestic honors.

Real Madrid's resilience and penalty expertise proved decisive in a thrilling Madrid derby, ensuring their journey in Europe’s elite competition continues.