(foto: Getty Images)
Real Madrid secured their spot in the Champions League quarter-finals, overcoming fierce city rivals Atletico Madrid on penalties (4-2) following an intense derby that ended 2-2 on aggregate.
Atletico had started strongly at the Metropolitano Stadium, levelling the aggregate score thanks to an early goal, forcing extra time after the match ended 1-0 at the end of regular play. However, despite a resilient defensive display from Diego Simeone's team, they couldn't find another goal during extra time.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti made bold tactical decisions, substituting star forward Vinicius Jr and bringing on teenage talent Endrick. Yet the deadlock persisted, sending the match into penalties.
During the shootout, Real Madrid converted all four penalties through Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, and Aurelien Tchouameni. Atletico’s hopes were dashed when Julian Alvarez missed, allowing Real Madrid to advance with a decisive 4-2 penalty win.
A visibly disappointed Atletico Madrid leave the competition early once again, while Real Madrid progress to face English powerhouse Arsenal in a highly anticipated quarter-final.