Which have been the best Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid matches? The greatest Madrid derby games

The Madrid derby between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid has delivered memorable encounters that have shaped the history of Spanish and European football. Below, we review some of the most iconic matches in this exciting rivalry.

Copa del Rey final 2012-2013: Atletico breaks the streak

On May 17, 2013, Atletico Madrid achieved a historic victory by defeating Real Madrid 2-1 in the Copa del Rey final, played at the Santiago Bernabeu. Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring for Los Blancos, but Diego Costa equalized. In extra time, Miranda scored the decisive goal, ending a 14-year winless streak for Atletico in Madrid derbies.

Champions League final 2013-2014: Real Madrid's La Decima

On May 24, 2014, in Lisbon, both teams faced off in the UEFA Champions League final. Atletico took the lead with a goal from Diego Godin, but Sergio Ramos equalized in the 93rd minute, sending the match into extra time. In the additional period, Real Madrid scored three more goals, securing their tenth European Cup.

Champions League final 2015-2016: Rematch in Milan

On May 28, 2016, in Milan, the Madrid rivals met once again in a European final. Sergio Ramos put Real Madrid ahead, and Yannick Carrasco leveled for Atletico. After a goalless extra time, the title was decided on penalties, where Los Blancos won 5-3, claiming their eleventh Champions League trophy.

Champions League semifinals 2016-2017: Madrid's dominance

In May 2017, during the Champions League semifinals, Real Madrid won 3-0 in the first leg, thanks to a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick. Although Atletico won 2-1 in the return leg, it was not enough to overturn the deficit, and Real Madrid advanced to the final.

UEFA Super Cup 2018: Atletico's revenge

On August 15, 2018, in Tallinn, Atletico Madrid defeated Real Madrid 4-2 in the UEFA Super Cup. Diego Costa scored twice, and in extra time, Saul Niguez and Koke sealed the victory, securing Atletico’s third UEFA Super Cup title.

Copa del Rey final 2012-2013: Atletico triumphs at the Bernabeu

On May 17, 2013, Atletico Madrid broke a 14-year drought without beating Real Madrid by winning 2-1 in the Copa del Rey final at the Santiago Bernabeu. Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring, but Diego Costa equalized, and in extra time, Miranda netted the winning goal.

Copa del Rey semifinals 2013-2014: Real Madrid’s revenge

In February 2014, Real Madrid got their revenge by eliminating Atletico in the Copa del Rey semifinals. They won 3-0 in the first leg and 2-0 in the second leg, advancing with a 5-0 aggregate score.

Spanish Super Cup final 2014: Atletico crowned champions

In August 2014, Atletico Madrid won the Spanish Super Cup by defeating Real Madrid 2-1 on aggregate. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Mario Mandzukic scored the only goal in the second leg, securing the title for Atletico.

Spanish Super Cup semifinals 2024: Real Madrid's goal fest

In January 2024, Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid 5-3 in the Spanish Super Cup semifinals. The match was filled with thrills and goals, with both teams displaying offensive brilliance, but Los Blancos ultimately secured their place in the final.

Copa del Rey round of 16 2023-2024: Atletico's comeback

On January 19, 2024, Atletico Madrid eliminated Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey round of 16 with a 4-2 victory at the Metropolitano Stadium. After a 2-2 draw in regular time, Atletico scored twice in extra time to secure their spot in the next round.

What you need to know about the Madrid derby

• The Madrid derby is one of the most intense rivalries in Spanish football, featuring Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
• Both teams have faced off in European finals, most notably the 2014 and 2016 Champions League finals, both won by Real Madrid.
• Atletico Madrid has secured significant victories, including the 2012-2013 Copa del Rey final and the 2018 UEFA Super Cup.
• The rivalry has delivered memorable matches across various competitions, including La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the Spanish Super Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup.