Real Madrid edged past Atletico Madrid with a 2-1 win in the Champions League Round of 16 first-leg match at the Santiago Bernabeu on March 4, 2025. The home crowd witnessed an exciting contest as the hosts secured an early lead. Brazilian winger Rodrygo struck just four minutes into the game after collecting a neat pass from Fede Valverde, sending the ball past Atletico’s keeper Jan Oblak.
Atletico Madrid fought back, with striker Julian Alvarez leveling the score through a stunning individual effort that left fans and opponents alike in awe. Despite this equalizer, Real Madrid managed to regain control when midfielder Brahim Diaz scored the decisive goal in the 55th minute. It was noted that Diaz, using quick footwork, left Atletico’s defender behind before neatly slotting the ball into the net, igniting celebrations among the supporters.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti made tactical adjustments by introducing Morocco international Diaz in midfield to cover for the suspended Jude Bellingham and reinstating Fede Valverde at right-back after his recovery. The report notes that Atletico, with Antoine Griezmann and Rodrigo De Paul, maintained long periods of control during the game, yet Real Madrid’s early strike and timely response proved to be the difference.
