Real Madrid edges Atletico 2-1 in Champions League first leg

In the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16, Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu. Rodrygo opened the scoring just four minutes into the match, but Atletico equalized in the 32nd minute with a stunning strike from Julian Alvarez. Real regained the lead shortly after halftime through Brahim Diaz, who skillfully maneuvered through the Atletico defense. Despite their early setback, Atletico grew into the game but struggled to create clear chances, with Real Madrid maintaining a slight edge in play. The match sets the stage for a competitive return leg at Atletico's Metropolitano Stadium next week, where both teams will vie for a spot in the quarter-finals. The match highlighted the individual brilliance of both Rodrygo and Alvarez while displaying the tactical adjustments made by both managers, Carlo Ancelotti and Diego Simeone.