Real Madrid edge Atletico in dramatic shootout to reach Champions League quarter-finals
MADRID: Real Madrid secured a place in the Champions League quarter-finals after defeating city rivals Atletico Madrid 4-2 on penalties in a thrilling last-16 clash at the Metropolitano on Wednesday. The tie ended 2-2 on aggregate after extra time, with Antonio Rüdiger converting the decisive spot-kick for the reigning champions.
Atletico took an early lead in the second leg through midfielder Conor Gallagher, leveling the aggregate score after Real’s 2-1 first-leg win. Vinicius Jr. had a golden opportunity to seal the tie in normal time, but he missed a late penalty, keeping Atletico’s hopes alive.
The shootout was filled with drama, as Atletico’s Julian Alvarez saw his effort controversially ruled out. The forward slipped while taking his penalty, accidentally making two touches—an infringement that nullified his goal, denying Atletico a crucial equalizer at 2-2. Jan Oblak managed to save Lucas Vazquez’s penalty, but Marcos Llorente’s effort bounced in off the post before Rüdiger calmly slotted home the winner.
With the victory, Real Madrid remain on course for a record-extending 16th European Cup and will now face Arsenal in the quarter-finals.
