In a thrilling Madrid derby, Real Madrid secured their place in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals by defeating Atlético Madrid 4-2 in a penalty shootout. The match, held at the Metropolitano Stadium, ended 1-0 in regulation time (2-2 on aggregate), with Atlético’s Connor Gallagher scoring the fastest goal of this season’s Champions League just 28 seconds into the game.
Real Madrid’s Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was the hero of the night, making several crucial saves throughout the match, including denying Julián Álvarez and Antoine Griezmann. Despite Vinícius Júnior missing a penalty in the 70th minute, Real Madrid held their nerve in the shootout.
The drama intensified when VAR disallowed Álvarez’s successful penalty for a double touch, shifting the momentum in Real’s favor. Atlético’s Jan Oblak saved Lucas Vázquez’s penalty, but Marcos Llorente hit the crossbar, leaving Antonio Rüdiger to seal the victory with the final spot-kick.
Real Madrid will now face Arsenal in the quarter-finals, continuing their quest to defend their Champions League title. This victory marks their 22nd advancement in 23 knockout ties after winning the first leg, while Atlético’s 19-match unbeaten home run in Champions League knockouts came to an end.
The match has already sparked heated debates on social media, with fans discussing VAR’s decisive role and Courtois’ heroics.
Real Madrid Triumphs in Dramatic Madrid Derby in UCL2025: Advances to Champions League Quarter-Finals After Penalty Shootout Win Over Atlético
