Real Madrid Edge Atletico Madrid On Penalties To Reach UCL Quarterfinal

 

Real Madrid narrowly escaped elimination from Atletico Madrid in a UEFA Champions League derby. They won on penalties after a 1-0 victory in the round of 16 second-leg tie from their opponents settled the game on an aggregate of 2-2.

It was a big hurdle for Real to qualify for the quarterfinal, and Atletico were tougher than they were in the first-leg tie which they lost by 2-1. Real Madrid superstar figures had difficulty getting past their hosts, who committed more players to the defense. However, they were equally effective moving forward with the likes of Griezmann and Julian Alvarez. 

Conor Gallagher found a loose ball from a build-up orchestrated by Alvarez that was flicked into his path and guided the ball into the net against onrushing Courtois. The goal lead held on throughout even through the extra time. 

However, Vinicius wasted an opportunity from a penalty that should have settled the game for Real following a tackle on Kylian Mbappe in the box. The Brazilian was later removed as the game progressed to the closing stages. Mbappe led the side to the penalties and they won by 4-2.

Overview 

Both teams were familiar with each other and Real knew what Atletico could be up to at home. The hosts ensured a well-compacted defense, giving no chance to burrow to Real. Vinicius and Mbappe were closely watched making the game difficult for the visitors. 

Besides scoring the opening goal, Callagher had a field day making a great impact on the attack just as Julian Alvarez has proven effective in the attack for Atletico. The Argentine just the side from Manchester City and had since been a prominent figure in the squad. Atletico had enough players to keep Real's defense on their toes and Griezmann did much of that.