Atletico Madrid has claimed derby bragging rights with a hard-fought victory over 10-man Real Madrid, moving above their city rivals into second place in La Liga.
The decisive moment came when Dean Huijsen brought down Giuliano Simeone on the edge of the penalty area on Sunday, September 20.
Following a VAR review, Huijsen was shown a red card, leaving Real to play the remainder of the match with 10 men. Alejandro Grimaldo made no mistake from the resulting penalty, sending Atletico in front.
The hosts then strengthened their advantage when Jonathan David slid the ball home from Simeone’s cross to register his third goal in three La Liga appearances and put Atletico firmly in control.
Real introduced Julian Alvarez shortly afterwards, with the former Atletico target receiving a mixed reception from the home supporters.
Antonio Rudiger gave Real a late lifeline when he headed in Bernardo Silva’s free-kick, but Atletico held firm and prevented their rivals from finding a late equaliser.
The defeat leaves Real Madrid six points behind leaders Barcelona, who have maintained a perfect record, while Atletico move one point ahead of their rivals in second place.
It was a near-perfect afternoon for Atletico boss Simeone, who finally secured a victory over Mourinho after losing all three derby meetings during his first spell in Madrid.
Mourinho had previously enjoyed a remarkable record against Atletico, winning all six of his La Liga meetings with them between 2010 and 2013.
The first half was a scrappy affair, with Simeone and two of his defenders receiving yellow cards.
Cristian Romero was also fortunate to escape a red card after a VAR review for a foul on Jude Bellingham.
Atletico stepped up after the break and became the more dangerous side, even before Huijsen’s decision to bring down Simeone’s son changed the course of the match.
The hosts ultimately deserved their victory, finishing with 18 shots compared with Real Madrid’s eight.
The result marks Real’s second defeat in seven La Liga matches since Mourinho’s return, while they already find themselves trailing leaders Barcelona by a significant margin.
