Real Madrid edge Atletico as Vinicius Jr. strikes twice
Atlético took the lead in the first half through Ademola Lukman.
KATHMANDU: Real Madrid closed the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona to four points after a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over city rivals Atlético Madrid, powered by two goals from Vinícius Jr.
Atlético took the lead in the first half through Ademola Lukman, who converted a precise backheel pass from coach Diego Simeone’s son, Giuliano Simeone. But the second half belonged to Real, who staged a remarkable turnaround.
A penalty awarded after David Hancko fouled Brahim Díaz allowed Vinícius Jr. to equalise, before Federico Valverde capitalised on a defensive error to put Real ahead 2-1. Atlético fought back when Nahuel Molina struck from 25 yards to level the score, but six minutes later Vinícius Jr. curled in the decisive goal from a pass by Trent Alexander-Arnold, marking his 10th goal in his last 11 games.
The match saw late drama when Valverde was shown a straight red card for a foul on Alex Baena, leaving Real under pressure. Julian Álvarez’s shot rattled the post, but Madrid held on for their first league win over Atlético since September 2022.
The victory sets up a thrilling title race, as Barcelona had earlier beaten Rayo Vallecano 1-0 to extend their lead to seven points, now reduced to four with Real’s late surge.
