How has the Madrid Derby played out in the UEFA Champions League historically?

​The Madrid Derby has graced the UEFA Champions League stage on multiple occasions, showcasing the fierce rivalry between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. As of March 2025, these two Spanish giants have clashed in the Champions League nine times, with their tenth encounter currently unfolding in the Round of 16. Join us as we delve into the history of these thrilling European battles.​

The Inaugural European Clash: 1958–59 Semi-Finals

The first European meeting between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid dates back to the 1958–59 European Cup semi-finals. Real Madrid, the reigning champions, faced Atlético, the La Liga runners-up. The first leg at Santiago Bernabéu saw Real secure a 2–1 victory. Atlético responded with a 1–0 win in the second leg at Metropolitano Stadium, leveling the aggregate score at 2–2. A playoff match in Zaragoza determined the finalist, where Real Madrid triumphed 2–1, advancing to the final and eventually claiming their fourth consecutive European Cup. ​

The Historic 2014 Final: Lisbon Showdown

After a long hiatus, the Madrid clubs met again in the 2013–14 UEFA Champions League final. This marked the first time two teams from the same city contested the final. Held at Lisbon's Estádio da Luz, the match was a rollercoaster of emotions. Atlético took the lead through Diego Godín, and it seemed they would secure their maiden European title. However, Sergio Ramos's dramatic 93rd-minute header forced extra time, where Real Madrid dominated, scoring three more goals to win 4–1, securing their coveted 'La Décima'—the tenth European Cup.

2014–15 Quarter-Finals: A Tight Affair

The following season, the rivals met in the quarter-finals. The first leg at Vicente Calderón Stadium ended in a goalless draw. The return leg at Santiago Bernabéu was equally tense, with Real Madrid's Javier Hernández scoring the solitary goal in the 88th minute, ensuring a 1–0 aggregate victory for Los Blancos. ​

2016 Final: Milan's Penalty Drama

The 2015–16 season saw another all-Madrid Champions League final, this time at Milan's San Siro Stadium. Real Madrid took an early lead with Sergio Ramos finding the net. Atlético's Yannick Carrasco equalized, pushing the match into extra time and eventually a penalty shootout. Real Madrid held their nerve, winning 5–3 on penalties, clinching their 11th European title. ​

2016–17 Semi-Finals: Ronaldo's Hat-Trick

In the 2016–17 semi-finals, the first leg at Santiago Bernabéu witnessed Cristiano Ronaldo's masterclass, as he netted a hat-trick to give Real Madrid a commanding 3–0 lead. Atlético fought back in the second leg at Vicente Calderón, winning 2–1, but it wasn't enough to overturn the deficit. Real Madrid advanced with a 4–2 aggregate score and went on to win the final against Juventus. ​

2024–25 Round of 16: The Latest Chapter

As of March 2025, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid are contesting their tenth Champions League encounter in the Round of 16. The first leg at Santiago Bernabéu is underway, with the score tied at 1–1 at halftime. Real Madrid's Rodrygo opened the scoring early, but Atlético's Julián Álvarez responded with a stunning equalizer.

Head-to-Head Summary

In their nine completed Champions League meetings:​

• Real Madrid Wins: 5​
• Draws: 2​
• Atlético Madrid Wins: 2​
• Real Madrid Goals: 14​
• Atlético Madrid Goals: 7​

Memorable Moments

Sergio Ramos's Last-Minute Equalizer (2014 Final)

Sergio Ramos's 93rd-minute header in the 2014 final is etched in Champions League history. His goal denied Atlético their first European title and shifted the momentum in Real's favor during extra time.​

Cristiano Ronaldo's Hat-Trick (2017 Semi-Final)

Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick in the 2017 semi-final first leg showcased his prowess on the big stage, virtually sealing Real Madrid's place in the final.​

Tactical Battles: Ancelotti vs. Simeone

The managerial duels between Carlo Ancelotti and Diego Simeone have added another layer to these encounters. Ancelotti's tactical flexibility often contrasts with Simeone's disciplined, defensive approach, leading to intriguing battles on the pitch. ​

Impact on Spanish Football

These European clashes have not only intensified the Madrid rivalry but also highlighted the dominance of Spanish clubs in Europe during the 2010s. The repeated success of both teams has contributed significantly to La Liga's reputation on the continental stage.​

Fan Perspectives

For fans, these matches are more than just games; they're cultural events that embody the spirit and passion of Madrid. The contrasting identities of the clubs—Real's royal heritage versus Atlético's working-class roots—add depth to this rivalry, making each European encounter a narrative of its own.