January 19, (THEWILL) – Atletico Madrid pulled off a dramatic 4-2 extra-time victory over city rivals Real Madrid, on Thursday evening, to dump the holders out of the Copa del Rey. Goals from Samuel Lino, Antoine Griezmann and Rodrigo Riquelme, secured the win for Diego Simeone’s side after Real had equalised twice through an own goal and Joselu’s late header to force extra time.
The match was a real rollercoaster at the Wanda Metropolitano, with Atletico twice taking the lead through Lino and Alvaro Morata before Real pegged them back. Morata thought he had won it with 11 minutes left but Joselu levelled things up to give Real hope. However, Griezmann and Riquelme, had other ideas in extra time as Atletico survived a disallowed goal from Dani Ceballos to book their place in the quarter-finals.
It was a significant result for Atletico as they seek to win the Copa Del Rey for the first time since 2013. Real entered the match as defending champions but came unstuck against their fierce local rivals, bringing an end to their hopes of retaining the trophy.
The game ebbed and flowed throughout the 120 minutes and was played at a high tempo, with chances at both ends. In the end, Atletico’s ruthlessness in front of the goal proved the difference as they now look ahead to the next round while Real will now dedicate attention to the League and the UEFA Champions League when action resumes this year.
For Diego Simeone, this was a sweet victory over their neighbours and one that will live long in the memory of Atletico fans. The Rojiblancos showed guts and determination to finish off the contest after Real had come from behind twice.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
