In a thrilling La Liga derby, Atlético Madrid delivered a stunning performance, thrashing Real Madrid 5-2, with Julián Álvarez emerging as the star of the show by scoring twice. The match, held at the Metropolitano Stadium, saw Atlético come from behind to inflict Real Madrid's first defeat of the season.
Atlético's aggressive start paid off early when Robin Le Normand scored with a header in the 14th minute. However, Real Madrid quickly responded, with Kylian Mbappe leveling the score with a close-range strike in the 25th minute, followed by Arda Guler's volley in the 36th minute, assisted by Vinicius Jr, putting the visitors ahead.
Undeterred, Atlético Madrid continued to press, and Alexander Sorloth's header in added time before halftime provided a much-needed boost. Early in the second half, Atlético regained the lead when Julián Álvarez converted a penalty in the 50th minute after Guler's high boot made contact with Nico Gonzalez. Álvarez then extended Atlético's lead in the 64th minute with a beautiful free-kick into the top corner. Substitute Antoine Griezmann sealed the victory with a goal in added time.
The victory was a significant one for Diego Simeone's Atlético, moving them up to fourth place in the league standings with 12 points from seven games. Real Madrid, who had won their previous six league matches, now hold a two-point advantage over Barcelona, who have a game in hand. The result has opened the door for Barcelona to go top of La Liga.
Julián Álvarez's performance was particularly noteworthy, with his brace leaving Real Madrid with no answers. His goals, one from the penalty spot and another from a free kick, showcased his skill and composure under pressure. Other goals came from Robin Le Normand and Alexander Sorloth, with Antoine Griezmann also contributing to the scoreline. For Real Madrid, Mbappe and Guler found the net.
The match was a significant blow to Real Madrid's title aspirations, as they arrived having won all six of their previous games this season. Atlético's dominant performance has put them back in the title race, closing the gap to six points. The atmósfera at the Metropolitano was electric, with the fans erupting in celebration as Griezmann scored the fifth goal. This victory marks a memorable derby day for Atlético Madrid.
