Who has won more penalty shootouts in the Madrid Derby? Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid?

In the intense history of the Madrid Derby, penalty shootouts have played a pivotal role in determining the outcomes of several crucial matches between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. The most recent addition to this history came in the 2025 UEFA Champions League Round of 16, where Real Madrid once again proved their superiority from the penalty spot. Analyzing these high-stakes scenarios reveals insights into which team has historically prevailed when matches extended beyond regular play into the nerve-wracking realm of penalties.

Madrid Derby 2025 UEFA Champions League

After a highly competitive match that ended in a draw, both teams faced off in a dramatic shootout. The tension was palpable as Kylian Mbappe opened the shootout with a successful strike, followed by goals from Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde. Atletico Madrid, however, struggled under pressure, with Julian Alvarez slipping during his attempt and Marcos Llorente hitting the crossbar, sealing Real Madrid’s passage to the quarter-finals. This victory further cemented Real Madrid’s dominance in penalty shootouts against their city rivals.

Historical Penalty Shootouts in the Madrid Derby

Throughout the storied rivalry between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, there have been several notable instances where matches were decided by penalty shootouts. These encounters often occurred during critical fixtures, adding to the drama and intensity of the derby.

1975 Copa del Generalisimo Final

One of the earliest and most significant penalty shootouts between the two clubs took place during the 1975 Copa del Generalisimo Final. Held on July 5, 1975, at the Vicente Calderon Stadium, the match ended in a 0-0 draw after extra time. The outcome was decided by penalties, with Real Madrid emerging victorious with a 4-3 score in the shootout.

1979 Copa del Rey Third Round

Another memorable penalty shootout occurred during the 1978-79 Copa del Rey. In the third round, after a 2-2 draw over two legs, the tie was decided by penalties. Real Madrid won the shootout 4-1, advancing to the next round at the expense of Atletico Madrid.

1980 Copa del Rey Semifinal

The 1979-80 Copa del Rey semifinal between the two rivals also culminated in a penalty shootout. Following a 1-1 aggregate score over two legs, the match proceeded to penalties. Real Madrid once again triumphed, winning the shootout 4-3 and securing their place in the final.

2016 UEFA Champions League Final

A more recent and globally significant penalty shootout between the two clubs occurred during the 2016 UEFA Champions League Final. After a 1-1 draw following extra time, the match was decided by penalties. Real Madrid clinched the title by winning the shootout 5-3, highlighting their composure under pressure on Europe's biggest stage.

2020 Supercopa de Espana Final

The 2019-20 Supercopa de Espana Final also witnessed a penalty shootout between the Madrid rivals. After a goalless draw in regular and extra time, Real Madrid won the shootout 4-1, adding another victory to their record in penalty deciders against Atletico Madrid.

2025 UEFA Champions League Round of 16

The most recent penalty shootout in Madrid Derby history took place in the 2025 UEFA Champions League Round of 16. After an intense match that ended level after extra time, the fate of both teams was decided from the spot. Real Madrid converted four of their five penalties, with Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Antonio Rudiger all scoring.

Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, struggled under pressure, as Julian Alvarez’s attempt was ruled invalid due to a slip, and Marcos Llorente missed, hitting the crossbar. Real Madrid triumphed 4-2 in the shootout, securing a spot in the quarter-finals and extending their unbeaten record in penalty shootouts against Atletico.

Overall Record in Penalty Shootouts

Considering the documented instances, Real Madrid has demonstrated a superior record in penalty shootouts against Atletico Madrid. They have emerged victorious in each of the noted encounters, underscoring their historical edge in these high-pressure situations.

What You Should Know About Penalty Shootouts in the Madrid Derby

• Real Madrid has a perfect record in penalty shootouts against Atletico Madrid, winning all documented encounters.
• Notable shootouts include the 1975 Copa del Generalisimo Final, the 2016 UEFA Champions League Final, and the 2020 Supercopa de Espana Final.
• The latest penalty shootout occurred in the 2025 UEFA Champions League Round of 16, where Real Madrid eliminated Atletico Madrid.
• Factors such as experience, goalkeeping excellence, and psychological advantage have contributed to Real Madrid's success in these scenarios.