Mbappe Secures Crucial Point for Real Madrid in Heated Madrid Derby 1-1

Kylian Mbappe salvaged a vital point for Real Madrid in a high-stakes derby against city rivals Atletico Madrid, ensuring Los Blancos remain at the top of La Liga.

Controversial Penalty Puts Atletico Ahead

Diego Simeone’s side took the lead in the 35th minute through a controversial penalty decision. Julian Alvarez confidently converted from the spot using a ‘Panenka’ technique, delicately chipping the ball down the middle while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois dived past.

The penalty was awarded after a VAR review, which determined that Aurelien Tchouameni had fouled Samuel Lino inside the box—a decision that sparked heated debate among fans and pundits.

Mbappe Responds with Clinical Finish

Just five minutes into the second half, Mbappe scored his 16th league goal of the season, reacting quickest to Jude Bellingham’s deflected shot and calmly slotting the ball past Jan Oblak.

Bellingham, the England international, proved instrumental in the latter stages, rattling the crossbar with a powerful header and forcing a crucial save from Oblak as Real Madrid pressed for a late winner.

La Liga Title Race Intensifies

The draw keeps Real Madrid one point ahead of second-placed Atletico Madrid, with Barcelona trailing by five points. However, Barca has a chance to narrow the gap when they face Sevilla on Sunday evening (20:00 GMT).

Focus Shifts to Champions League

Carlo Ancelotti’s squad now turns its attention to Champions League action, with a highly anticipated first-leg clash against Manchester City in the knockout phase looming.