Intense Madrid Derby: Rivals Face Off in High-Stakes Showdown
Real Madrid fans displayed a banner reading “Proper rival wanted for a worthy derby” before their match against Atletico Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu in November 2011. At that time, Atletico had not won against Real Madrid in over 13 years and 25 matches.
Despite Atletico going 1-0 up in that match, their goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, on loan from Chelsea, was sent off. Real Madrid secured a 4-1 victory, continuing their dominance over Atletico in the derby matches.
The narrative shifted in the 2013 Copa del Rey final at the Bernabeu, where Atletico defeated Real Madrid 2-1 in extra time. This victory was significant for Atletico fans, especially when their captain Gabi received the trophy from King Juan Carlos, a known Real Madrid supporter.
Since then, the rivalry between the two teams has become more balanced. Out of 43 derbis, Real Madrid has won 16 times, there have been 15 draws, and Atletico has claimed victory 12 times, including games in the Supercopa de Espana and UEFA Super Cup.
The Madrid derby has evolved both on and off the pitch, with Real Madrid's historical superiority giving way to a more competitive atmosphere. Atletico's rise has been accompanied by some unsavory incidents involving radical ultras supporters, which are condemned by the majority of Atletico fans.
As Real Madrid prepares to face Atletico in a La Liga match at the Metropolitano, the rivalry between the two clubs continues to be a significant aspect for both sides. The derby dates back to the first La Liga clash in 1929, where Real Madrid emerged victorious.
Real Madrid's dominance in the mid-20th century, led by president Santiago Bernabeu, contrasted with Atletico's outsider image, especially during the presidency of Jesus Gil y Gil in the 1980s and 1990s. The derby has always held a special place in the hearts of fans in Madrid, often overshadowing the El Clasico matches against Barcelona.
Both clubs have seen changes over the years, with Real Madrid's global reach and financial success under president Florentino Perez contrasting with Atletico's underdog status. The intense rivalry between the two teams has only intensified as Atletico has become a formidable opponent in domestic and European competitions.
Recent years have seen tensions rise between the clubs, with instances of abuse and controversial incidents adding to the heated atmosphere of the Madrid derby. Despite changes in management and player transfers, the ferocity of the rivalry between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid remains a constant in Spanish football.