Vinicius Jr netted a brace as Real Madrid edged a dramatic derby win over Atletico, cutting Barcelona’s lead at the top of La Liga to four points.
After falling behind before half-time, Real mounted a strong second-half comeback to seize control of the match. However, they were left clinging on late in the game after Federico Valverde was sent off for a challenge on Alex Baena.
Atletico had taken an unlikely lead when Ademola Lookman finished from close range following a clever backheel from Giuliano Simeone, the son of their manager Diego Simeone.
Real responded after the break, with Vinicius converting from the penalty spot after Brahim Diaz was fouled by David Hancko. Valverde then capitalised on a defensive lapse to give the hosts the lead, calmly slotting past Juan Musso.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side appeared in full control, but Nahuel Molina stunned the Bernabeu with a superb long-range strike to bring Atletico level.
Vinicius, however, had the final say, curling home the decisive goal just six minutes later after being set up by substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold marking his 10th goal in 11 games.
Alexander-Arnold impressed after coming on for Dani Carvajal, while Jude Bellingham also made a welcome return from injury. Kylian Mbappe was another notable figure introduced from the bench.
Valverde’s late red card shifted momentum, and Atletico nearly snatched another equaliser when Julian Alvarez struck the post. Despite the pressure, Real held firm to secure their first La Liga derby win over Atletico since September 2022.
Earlier in the day, Barcelona had extended their lead at the top with a narrow victory over Rayo Vallecano.
