Real Madrid have defeated their rivals Atletico Madrid 3-1 in the Copa del Rey to advance to the semi-finals of the tournament. The Rojiblancos were reduced to ten men in extra time, and their rivals were able to take advantage of the situation and get the much-needed win.
Alvaro Morata was the first to get on the scoresheet by netting against his former club. The Spain international tapped the ball in as his side looked the better one on the pitch for the majority of the game.
Real Madrid overturn one goal deficit to beat Atletico Madrid
The hosts looked disoriented for the majority of the first half, and struggled to supply their attacking line with clear cut chances.
Atletico seemed en route to snatching a win at the Santiago Bernabeu, exposing the frail defence of Los Blancos. However, Carlo Ancelotti was able to shuffle the team and brought on Rodrygo to equalise late in normal time. The Brazilian has emerged as a supersub in so many big games, and did so last night as well.
Stefan Savic was sent off for two yellow cards in two minutes, before Karim Benzema found the back of the net to make it 2-1. Vinicius Jr made it 3-1 to seal the win for the defending La Liga champions, in spite of pressure increasing from Atletico Madrid.
Alvaro Morata was subbed off, which took the steam out of Atletico’s attack in the latter stages of the game. And despite having control for the most part, they were unable to make it over the line.
Real Madrid now join Barcelona, Athletic Club and Osasuna in the semi-finals of the tournament. The chances of a high-stakes El Clasico happening in the semi final, or better still, the finals of the competition, look very likely now.
