Federico Valverde and Rodrygo found the net, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois delivered a string of impressive saves, as Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid 2-1 to secure a spot in Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup final against FC Barcelona.
Match Overview
Atletico dominated the match, registering more than double the shots of Real Madrid. However, they could only manage one goal through Alexander Sorloth’s second-half header.
The action began in the second minute when Jude Bellingham was fouled around 10 meters outside the Atletico penalty area. The referee awarded a free kick to Real Madrid. Valverde took the kick, striking the ball hard and flat; it was still rising when it hit the back of the net, leaving goalkeeper Jan Oblak with no chance.
Real Madrid started the game by pressing high, which disrupted Atletico’s ability to move the ball effectively. As the half progressed, Atletico created several scoring opportunities but was thwarted repeatedly by their former goalkeeper, Courtois.
Sorloth had an early chance, heading over, while Julian Alvarez fired wide. Courtois then showcased his skills by deflecting Alex Baena’s shot. He continued to impress, making a brilliant reflex save to tip away Sorloth’s header from a corner. After Sorloth nodded over Conor Gallagher’s cross, Courtois denied Baena again, with Gallagher hitting the rebound wide.
Second Half Highlights
Atletico started the second half strongly, but it was Real Madrid that extended their lead in the 55th minute, Rodrygo taking advantage of Valverde’s through-ball to finish coolly past Oblak. Three minutes later, Sorloth powered a header into the net, reducing the deficit for Atletico.
Courtois was called into action again, pushing another effort from Sorloth wide. Real Madrid had to make defensive changes with Antonio Rudiger and Raul Asencio replaced by Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia.
Despite Atletico’s continued pressure, Courtois once again came through, denying Antoine Griezmann before Marcos Llorente and Alvarez sent attempts just wide.