In a pulsating Supercopa de Espana semi-final, Real Madrid emerged victorious against city rivals Atletico Madrid, securing a thrilling 5-3 win after extra time. The resurgent Dani Carvajal played a pivotal role, contributing with a goal and an assist, while goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga had a mixed performance.
Early Drama Unfolds
The intensity of the Madrid derby was evident from the outset, with Atletico drawing first blood as Mario Hermoso nodded in a corner delivered by Antoine Griezmann. Real Madrid responded promptly, as Antonio Rudiger mirrored the scoring pattern by converting a Luka Modric corner to level the game at 1-1.
Real Madrid seized the lead with Ferland Mendy's deft flick guiding Carvajal's cross into the net, only for Atletico to equalize again through a Griezmann solo effort. The first half ended in a 2-2 deadlock.
Rollercoaster Second Half
The second half saw Atletico adopting a defensive stance, inviting pressure from Real Madrid. Kepa Arrizabalaga, the Real Madrid goalkeeper, faced criticism for a crucial mistake that allowed Atletico to take the lead. Morata capitalized on Kepa's error, resulting in an own goal and a 3-3 scoreline.
Undeterred, Real Madrid responded once more, with Carvajal smashing in a rebound after a chaotic passage in Atletico's box. Despite both teams' efforts, a decisive fourth goal remained elusive in regular time.
Extra-Time Drama
The defining moment of the match came in extra time when Carvajal's teasing ball led to an own goal by Stefan Savic, securing a 4-3 lead for Real Madrid. The chaos continued as Atletico's goalkeeper Jan Oblak joined the attack for a corner, leaving an open net for Brahim Diaz to seal the victory with a late goal.
Player Ratings
Goalkeeper & Defence
Kepa Arrizabalaga (4/10): Faced criticism for a second-half mistake but had little chance with Atletico's goals in the first half.
Dani Carvajal (9/10): A standout performance, contributing with a goal, an assist, and defensive prowess. Carvajal appears to be rejuvenated.
Antonio Rudiger (6/10): Scored a fine header but was unfortunate to concede Atletico's third. Kepa's mistake played a role.
Nacho (6/10): Provided a tidy performance at the back without significant errors.
Ferland Mendy (7/10): Found the scoresheet and put in a solid shift as he continues to regain full fitness.
Midfield
Aurelien Tchouameni (7/10): Dominated the midfield and had minimal errors, with a strong presence in the base.
Federico Valverde (7/10): Showed energy in central areas, especially in extra time, contributing to stifling Atletico's midfield.
Luka Modric (6/10): Assisted Rudiger's goal and showcased passing ability but appeared exploited defensively.
Jude Bellingham (7/10): Improved as the game progressed, overcoming a slow start with better contributions late on.
Attack
Rodrygo (6/10): Struggled defensively on set-pieces but remained active in the attacking phase.
Vinicius Jr (6/10): Displayed excellence and danger in open spaces but lacked impact in key areas, particularly with the final ball.
In a chaotic and thrilling encounter, Real Madrid's attacking impetus and Carvajal's resurgence proved decisive, earning them a spot in the Supercopa de Espana final.
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