Vinícius Júnior struck twice as Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid 3-2 in a thrilling Madrid derby on Sunday, keeping pressure on La Liga leaders Barcelona.
Ademola Lookman initially put Atletico ahead in the first half, but Vinícius and Federico Valverde responded quickly after the interval to give Madrid the lead. Nahuel Molina equalised for Atletico with a spectacular long-range strike, but Vinícius netted again to clinch the win for Los Blancos.
The victory marked a successful week for Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa, who had also overseen the club’s Champions League last-16 win over Manchester City. Valverde was sent off late in the match for fouling Alex Baena, forcing Madrid to defend their lead in the closing stages.
The match began with end-to-end action, including a near-miss from Valverde hitting the post and a quick recovery from Andriy Lunin after a fumble. Atletico took the lead in the 33rd minute when Giuliano Simeone backheeled the ball to Lookman, who slotted home.
Madrid responded immediately in the second half. Brahim Diaz’s pace drew a foul from David Hancko, allowing Vinícius to score from the penalty spot in the 52nd minute. Three minutes later, Valverde intercepted Jose Gimenez’s pass and fired past Juan Musso to put Madrid ahead.
Molina’s thunderbolt equalised for Atletico, but Vinícius curled home once more from a Trent Alexander-Arnold assist to secure the win. The Brazilian forward has now scored 10 goals in his last 11 matches across all competitions.
Substitutes Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe made their appearances late in the game but could not change the outcome. Madrid survived a tense finish after Valverde’s red card and a late header from Alexander Sorloth was saved by Lunin.
The win ensures Real Madrid remain four points behind Barcelona, keeping their title challenge very much alive.
