Real Madrid were denied a crucial win in the La Liga title race as Marcos Llorente scored a stoppage-time header to earn Atletico Madrid a 1-1 draw in the Madrid derby on Sunday.
The hosts took the lead in the 20th minute, when Brahim Diaz chipped the ball over Jan Oblak after a clever pass from Lucas Vazquez. It was Diaz’s first goal for Real Madrid since joining from Manchester City in January.
Real Madrid dominated the game and had several chances to extend their lead, but Oblak made some fine saves to keep Atletico in the game. Vinicius Junior, who replaced the injured Diaz in the second half, hit the post with a curling shot in the 75th minute.
Atletico, who had a goal disallowed for offside in the 50th minute, looked to have run out of ideas, but they found a late lifeline in the 93rd minute, when Llorente rose above Nacho Fernandez to head in a cross from Memphis Depay.
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The equaliser sparked wild celebrations from the Atletico players and fans, who saw their team salvage a point from a game they were second best in. The result leaves Real Madrid two points clear of Girona, who drew 0-0 with Real Sociedad on Saturday, and 10 points above Atletico, who are fourth.
The Madrid derby was one of the most anticipated games of the season, as both teams have been in good form and have a fierce rivalry. However, it ended in a dramatic draw that left Real Madrid frustrated and Atletico relieved. The title race is still open, but Real Madrid will feel they missed a golden opportunity to pull away from their challengers.
REAL MADRID VS ATHLETICO MADRID VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
https://youtu.be/JwcDpkwrOh0?si=SQnG2cDJ7FOJ01T5
