Real Madrid secured passage to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals after defeating their cross-town rivals Atletico Madrid in a penalty shootout. Despite losing 1-0 in regular time at the Wanda Metropolitano through Connor Gallagher’s early goal (scored after just 27 seconds), the tie finished 2-2 on aggregate, forcing extra time and eventually penalties. Real Madrid prevailed 4-2 in the shootout, with Julian Alvarez’s missed kick proving decisive for Atletico.
Real Madrid Player Ratings
Thibaut Courtois – 8/10
The Belgian goalkeeper delivered a solid performance against his former club. Despite conceding early, Courtois made seven crucial saves throughout the match, keeping Real Madrid in contention.
Federico Valverde – 7.5/10
Valverde excelled as a makeshift right back for Los Blancos. The versatile Uruguayan completed an impressive 113 passes over 120 minutes and won four of seven duels, providing defensive stability and support in attack.
Raul Acensio – 7/10
The Spanish defender was remarkably efficient, completing 98% of his passes (79/81). He made nine recoveries and won two tackles, demonstrating excellent composure under pressure.
Antonio Rudiger – 8/10
Rudiger delivered a commanding performance at the heart of defense. He completed 88 of 91 passes and won three of five duels. Fittingly, he converted the decisive penalty that secured Real Madrid’s progression.
Ferland Mendy – 6.5/10
The French defender put in a solid shift before being forced off with an injury in the 83rd minute. While not spectacular, he won two tackles and contested seven duels during his time on the pitch.
Aurelien Tchouameni – 7/10
Tchouameni provided a strong defensive presence in midfield. He completed 57 of 61 passes, made five recoveries, and won three of four duels, helping control the game’s tempo.
Luka Modric – 7.5/10
The veteran midfielder displayed his usual class before being substituted in the 65th minute for Camavinga. Though he didn’t create any clear chances, his control and distribution were valuable for maintaining possession.
Rodrygo – 6.5/10
The Brazilian winger had a relatively quiet game before being replaced by Brahim Diaz in the 79th minute. He completed 61 of 66 passes but won only three of nine duels, struggling to make a significant impact.
Jude Bellingham – 8/10
The English midfielder was exceptional throughout, showing why he’s become so crucial to Real Madrid. Bellingham completed more dribbles (4) than any player on the field and won the most duels (13), demonstrating both technical skill and physical prowess.
Kylian Mbappe – 7.5/10
Mbappe had a productive outing, completing 30 of 32 passes and winning a penalty in the 70th minute that Vinicius Jr. failed to convert. His pace and movement caused problems for Atletico’s defense.
Vinicius Jr – 6/10
The Brazilian had a rare off night. He lost 15 duels (the most of any player) and missed a crucial penalty in the 70th minute that would have secured victory in regular time.
Substitutes:
Lucas Vazquez – 7/10
The versatile veteran completed 45 of 49 passes, created two chances, and won four duels, though he missed his penalty in the shootout.
Eduardo Camavinga – 7.5/10
The young Frenchman made an impact after replacing Modric, completing 30 of 31 passes and winning seven of nine duels.
Brahim Diaz – 7/10
Provided fresh energy from the bench, completing 33 of 35 passes and winning two free-kicks.
Francisco Garcia – 6.5/10
Came on for the injured Mendy and won all three duels he contested while completing 16 of 18 passes.
Endrick – NA
The Brazilian teenager didn’t have enough time to make an impact after being introduced late in extra time.
Real Madrid’s resilience once again proved decisive as Carlo Ancelotti’s team overcame their local rivals to continue their Champions League campaign. Despite not playing their best football, Los Blancos demonstrated why they remain one of the favorites to win the competition, showcasing their experience and composure in the penalty shootout.
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