Real Madrid edge Atlético in five-goal derby thriller

Vinícius Júnior scores winner as Real win first league derby in four years

Mar. 22, 2026 at 11:53pm

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Real Madrid came from behind to beat city rivals Atlético Madrid 3-2 in a pulsating derby at the Bernabéu. Ademola Lookman put Atlético ahead before Vinícius Júnior scored a penalty to level early in the second half. Fede Valverde then put Real in front, but Nahuel Molina equalized for Atlético. Vinícius scored the winner late on, but Valverde was sent off in the closing stages.

Why it matters

This was Real Madrid's first league derby win against Atlético in four years, ending a poor run of results in the fixture. The victory keeps Real in the title race, while Atlético miss the chance to gain ground on their rivals.

The details

Lookman put Atlético ahead in the first half, but Vinícius equalized from the penalty spot early in the second period. Valverde then scored to put Real in front, only for Molina to level things up again. However, Vinícius had the final say, netting the winner late on. Valverde was then sent off in the closing stages.

  • The match was played on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
  • This was Real Madrid's first league derby win against Atlético since September 2022.

The players

Vinícius Júnior

The Brazilian forward scored a penalty and the winning goal for Real Madrid.

Fede Valverde

The Uruguayan midfielder scored Real Madrid's second goal but was sent off late on.

Ademola Lookman

The Atlético Madrid forward opened the scoring for the visitors.

Nahuel Molina

The Atlético Madrid defender scored the equalizer for his side.

Andriy Lunin

The Real Madrid goalkeeper played the full match despite Thibaut Courtois' absence.

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What they’re saying

“Another display of talent, of courage, of fearlessness, of making mistakes and trying again, as I always say, we're incredibly lucky to have him for his commitment, his talent, his desire to drive the team forward.”

— Álvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid manager

“He wasn't playing the ball”

— José Luis Munuera Montero, Referee

What’s next

Fede Valverde will miss Real Madrid's next league match against Real Mallorca after being sent off, but will be available for the games against Girona and Bayern Munich.

The takeaway

This hard-fought derby victory is a significant boost for Real Madrid's title hopes, as they ended a four-year winless run against their city rivals. The match showcased the quality and determination of Vinícius Júnior, who is emerging as a true leader for the team.