Atletico Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over 10-man Real Madrid on Sunday to move up to second place in La Liga, leaving Jose Mourinho’s side six points behind leaders Barcelona.
Real Madrid struggled to create clear opportunities in a tense opening half, with both sides producing more physical battles than attacking football.
Jude Bellingham was involved in one of the major talking points after his challenge on Cristian Romero, although the Atletico defender was eventually booked following a VAR review.
The game changed shortly after the restart when Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen was sent off for pulling back Giuliano Simeone as the Atletico forward raced towards goal.
The decision also resulted in a penalty, which Alejandro Grimaldo converted to give the hosts the lead.
Atletico doubled their advantage in the 59th minute when Canada international Jonathan David finished Giuliano Simeone’s low cross for his third goal in as many matches.
Real Madrid pushed for a way back into the contest, but Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak produced important saves, while Ibrahima Konate cleared Grimaldo’s effort off the line to prevent a third goal.
The visitors eventually reduced the deficit when Antonio Rudiger headed Bernardo Silva’s cross past Oblak late in the game.
However, Atletico held on for the win to move one point above Real Madrid in the table, while Mourinho’s side suffered their second defeat of the campaign.
