Real Madrid’s perfect start to the season came to an end in dramatic fashion as they were beaten 5-2 by city rivals Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium.
Real had won their first seven games of the season and were looking to go 12 points clear of Atlético. But form didn’t count for much in this fiery derby, as Diego Simeone’s team dominated from the start. Their early pressure paid off after 14 minutes when Robin Le Normand rose highest to head in a cross from Giuliano Simeone, scoring just his second La Liga goal for Atlético.
Real looked shaky at the back but showed their attacking class soon after. Arda Güler played a lovely through ball to Kylian Mbappé, who smashed in his 12th goal of the season to level the game. Güler then turned scorer, volleying in a fine cross from Vinícius Júnior to put Real 2-1 up.
Just before half-time, Atlético struck back. Koke sent in a cross from the left and Alexander Sørloth nodded it home, making it 2-2 at the break.
The second half started just as fast. Arda Güler gave away a penalty for a high boot on Nicolás González. Julián Álvarez stepped up and scored to make it 3-2 to Atlético. Moments later, Álvarez curled in a brilliant free-kick to extend the lead.
Real had no reply. In the closing stages, Antoine Griezmann added a fifth goal for Atlético to seal an unforgettable win. While Real Madrid stay top of La Liga, they could be overtaken by Barcelona. For Atlético, this win might be the spark they needed to kickstart their season.
