In a nail-biting showdown at the Metropolitano Stadium, Real Madrid edged out city rivals Atletico in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 4-2 after a 2-2 aggregate tie. ⚽️
The match kept fans on the edge of their seats. Real had taken a 2-1 advantage in the first leg, but Atletico's 1-0 win in the return match set the stage for extra time and ultimately the high-stakes shootout. Midfielder Conor Gallagher gave Atletico an early boost, yet Real’s determination shone through when Antonio Ruediger stepped up to convert the decisive penalty.
The tension mounted further when Vinicius Jr. missed a late opportunity for Real, and Atletico's forward Julian Alvarez saw his spot kick disallowed after a double touch, sparking frustration in the stands. Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak also made a crucial save on Lucas Vazquez’s attempt, but it wasn’t enough to stop the momentum.
Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois summed it up best: "In the end, a penalty shootout is a lottery." Despite not playing their best game, the defending champions have secured their place in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals and are now set on a path toward a record-extending 16th European Cup.
Reference(s):
Real sink Atletico in shootout to reach UEFA Champions League quarters
cgtn.com
