Atlético Madrid did something big in the Madrid derby as they ended up defeating Real Madrid 2-1 at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on 20 September 2026. The LaLiga Matchday 7 match was the last league game for both teams before the international break and it was an important one in the top of the league.
Atlético Turn the Derby Around
The first half ended goalless and both teams were unable to make a real breakthrough. The intensity of the derby was high, however, and Real Madrid ended up with 10 men after Dean Huijsen was sent off early in the second half.
Atlético took advantage of the numerical advantage and quickly established control of the match.
Grimaldo Opens the Scoring
Alejandro Grimaldo broke the deadlock from the penalty spot in the 53rd minute, giving Atlético a 1-0 lead.
Jonathan David doubled the advantage six minutes later. The Canadian striker finished from close range after a move involving Giuliano Simeone, putting the home side in a commanding position.
The two quick goals changed the complexion of the derby and put Real Madrid under great pressure.
Real Madrid Fight Until the End
Real Madrid continued to press for their way back into the match with 10 men. Their efforts finally led to a goal in the 89th minute when Antonio Rüdiger headed the ball into the net.
And the late goal restored Real Madrid's renewed hope but Atlético kept their heads high in the final stages and kept their lead.
The hosts did manage to complete a 2-1 victory which completed an important derby victory before the international break.
Real Madrid Drop to Third
The defeat had an immediate impact on the LaLiga table. Atlético moved above Real Madrid to second place with 16 points and Real Madrid fell to third place with 15 points. Barcelona remained top after beating Sevilla 3-1 and reaching 21 points.
Therefore, Real Madrid entered the international break in third place rather than fourth place.
A Major Result Before the Break
The derby victory gives Atlético much momentum heading into the international break, while Real Madrid will have to regroup after losing a match in which they finished with 10 players.
For Atlético, the result was more than three points. It was a statement result in one of Spanish football's biggest games and put them up above their city rivals in the early LaLiga standings.
The two sides will now have a break from domestic competition before returning to league action with the Madrid derby going to be amongst the central talking points of Matchday 7.
