Real Madrid secures a 5-3 victory in a dramatic Spanish Super Cup semifinal, outlasting Atletico Madrid in extra time with a flurry of goals. (Getty Images)
The Spanish Super Cup's first semi final unfolded with breathtaking drama as Real Madrid secured a thrilling 5-3 victory over Atletico Madrid in extra time. The crosstown rivals, competing at Riyadh's Al-Awwal Stadium, delivered 120 minutes of captivating action, creating a memorable night for football enthusiasts.
Entering the match with a 19-match unbeaten streak, Real Madrid faced an early setback when Atletico Madrid took the lead in the 7th minute. Mario Hermoso's header off a corner provided Atleti with an early advantage. Real Madrid swiftly responded with Antonio Rudiger's header in the 20th minute, leveling the score.
The match's tempo intensified as Carlo Ancelotti's side showcased splendid build-up play, leading to Ferland Mendy's slick finish in the 29th minute, giving Real Madrid their first lead.
Notably, Antoine Griezmann made history in the 37th minute, scoring a stylish equalizer from just outside the box. This goal marked his 174th for Atleti, making him the club's all-time leading goalscorer, surpassing Luis Aragones.
The second half saw a decrease in tempo until Rudiger's unfortunate own goal in the 78th minute, allowing Atleti to take a 3-2 lead. However, Real Madrid quickly equalized in a chaotic pinball-style goal by Dani Carvajal in the 85th minute, sending the match into extra time.
Extra time brought more twists as Stefan Savic's own goal in the 116th minute handed Real Madrid the lead. The game's climax occurred in the 120th+2 minute when Brahim Diaz capitalized on a corner, outpacing Atleti's goalkeeper Jan Oblak and securing Real Madrid's victory with a well-placed strike into an empty net.
The Spanish Super Cup semifinal showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, with Real Madrid ultimately triumphing in a match that will be remembered for its goals, intensity, and the historic moments created by the players on the field.
