Real Madrid booked their place in the Champions League quarter-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout win over Atletico Madrid, following a 2-2 aggregate scoreline.
Atletico made an explosive start, leveling the tie within 27 seconds as Conor Gallagher latched onto Rodrigo De Paul’s cross to beat Thibaut Courtois. However, despite their early advantage, Diego Simeone’s side opted for a defensive approach, allowing Madrid to control possession without creating clear-cut chances.
Los Blancos had a golden opportunity in the 70th minute when Clement Lenglet fouled Kylian Mbappe in the box. But Vinicius Junior squandered the penalty, blasting his shot over the bar.
With no further goals, the match went into extra time, but neither team took the risk, forcing a dramatic penalty shootout. Controversy struck when Julian Alvarez’s converted effort was ruled out for a double touch, swinging momentum in Madrid’s favor. Marcos Llorente then missed for Atleti, allowing Antonio Rudiger to slot home the winning penalty.
Real Madrid will now face Arsenal in the quarter-finals, while Atletico Madrid’s wait for European glory continues.
