Julian Alvarez’s brace powers Atletico Madrid to a stunning comeback victory over city rivals Real Madrid, handing the league leaders their first defeat of the campaign.
Published On 27 Sep 2025
In a thrilling Madrid derby at the electrifying Metropolitano Stadium, Julian Alvarez netted twice as Atletico Madrid overturned a deficit to dominate Real Madrid 5-2. This result marked the first setback for the La Liga frontrunners after an unbeaten start to the season.
The hosts, energized by a passionate crowd, clawed back from trailing 2-1 to secure a commanding win that propelled them to fourth place with 12 points on the table.
Despite the loss, Real Madrid maintain their position atop La Liga with 18 points, holding a two-point advantage over Barcelona, who have a match in hand.
Atletico’s relentless pressure paid dividends early on when Robin Le Normand headed home the opener in the 14th minute, setting the tone for a fiercely contested encounter.
Real responded swiftly as Kylian Mbappe capitalized on a rapid counterattack, firing a precise close-range shot to equalize in the 25th minute. Eleven minutes later, Arda Guller volleyed in a cross from Vinicius Jr, giving the visitors the lead heading into the latter stages of the first half.
Just before halftime, Alexander Sorloth’s towering header restored parity for Atletico, injecting fresh momentum. Early in the second half, Alvarez converted a penalty awarded after Guller’s high boot struck Nico Gonzalez’s face inside the box, putting Atletico ahead for the first time in the match.
Alvarez then extended the advantage in the 64th minute with a masterful free kick curled into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. The victory was sealed in stoppage time by substitute Antoine Griezmann, who finished off a swift counterattack to complete the emphatic scoreline.
This standout performance from Alvarez served as a form of redemption following his controversial penalty miss against Real Madrid in last season’s Champions League clash, which contributed to Atletico’s elimination.
Under Diego Simeone’s guidance, Atletico handed Xabi Alonso his first defeat since taking charge of Real Madrid this summer. Prior to this match, Alonso’s side had won all six league fixtures and their opening Champions League game. His only other loss as Madrid’s coach came against Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semifinals in July.
Looking ahead, Barcelona has the opportunity to overtake Real Madrid at the summit with a victory over Real Sociedad this Sunday.
Following the defeat, Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso candidly acknowledged his team’s shortcomings.
“We were off our game in every aspect. Our passing was disjointed, we lost too many duels, and chances were scarce,” Alonso reflected.
“It’s crucial we analyze this performance thoroughly and improve moving forward.”
Despite the setback, Alonso remains optimistic about the season’s progression.
“This is part of a larger journey. We’re still shaping our identity as a team, and I’m confident we will grow stronger,” he concluded.
