Cristiano Ronaldo scored late on as Real Madrid came from behind to draw 2-2 with Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Sunday.
The visitors were ahead inside three minutes when Karim Benzema converted from close range, but goals from Koke and Gabi left Atletico 2-1 ahead after a highly-charged first 45 minutes in the Spanish capital.
Los Blancos' continued pressure paid dividends in the latter stages, however, as a smart finish from Ronaldo ensured that Madrid's long unbeaten run in all competitions continued.
Here, Sports Mole dissects the 90 minutes of action between the two capital rivals.
Match statistics
Atletico
Shots: 11
On target: 4
Possession: 36%
Corners: 6
Fouls: 17
Real Madrid
Shots: 15
On target: 6
Possession: 64%
Corners: 4
Fouls: 10
Was the result fair?
In truth, a draw is just about a fair reflection of the events at the Calderon. Atletico showed brilliant character to recover from the early setback and take a lead into the second period, while they had chances to extend their lead after the interval. That said, the final 20 minutes or so were dominated by Los Blancos, who forced their second after 82 minutes. Neither team really did enough to deserve to take all the points from the key La Liga encounter, which has left Atletico with a better head-to-head record than their opponents after winning in the Bernabeu earlier in the season.
Atletico's performance
After four defeats in their last six matches in all competitions, the last thing that Atletico needed was to fall behind in the early stages to a side in such strong form. That happened, but they showed their character and togetherness to turn the game on its head. In truth, they have looked tired in recent weeks, but that was not the case this afternoon. Miranda and Diego Godin were both terrific in defence, while Diego Costa was his usual menacing self in the final third. On another day they might have held on for all three points, but a draw certainly keeps them in the running for the title, whereas a defeat would have surely ended their challenge altogether.
Real Madrid's performance
Los Blancos have played some scintillating football in recent months, but that was not the case at the Calderon. They made the perfect start after just three minutes, but never really built on their one-goal lead and allowed the hosts to claw their way back into the match. Ronaldo and Gareth Bale hardly featured until the latter stages of the second period, but that was mostly down to Atletico's work-rate in their own half. The capital outfit have played much better this season, but ultimately it is another match unbeaten, while they remain top of the table by three points.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Arda Turan: It was not particularly a match full of star performances, but Turan was just terrific for the home side this afternoon. It was the Turkish international's wonderful work on the edge of the box that set up Koke for Atletico's equaliser, while the visitors found it difficult to contend with his guile and inventiveness in the final third. It is never anything less than an 8/10 performance from Turan week-by-week, which makes him such a valuable asset.
Biggest gaffe
There are a number of moments that could have been selected for this particular award, but Real Madrid centre-back Pepe's conduct in the first period has been chosen. While defending a corner inside his own box, the Portuguese clashed with Atletico defender Godin. Under minimal contact, Pepe threw himself to the ground in a clear attempt to deceive the referee. However, the official was aware of what had happened and instead produced a booking for the Madrid defender. Unfortunately, it was another contest somewhat marred by play-acting from both sides.
Referee performance
Where to start? As expected, it was a difficult 90 minutes for Spanish referee Carlos Delgado. The official had a number of penalty calls to contend with, but refused to award Atletico forward Costa a spot kick despite two or three strong claims. Real Madrid will also feel that they should have had a penalty in the second period when Gabi handled inside the box, but once more, Delgado was not interested. That said, the referee issued just five bookings at the Calderon, which is incredible when taking into account what occurred. It was an eventful evening for the official that is for certain.
What next?
Atletico: Next up for Diego Simeone's side in La Liga is a trip to Celta Vigo next Saturday evening.
Real Madrid: Los Blancos will attempt to continue their long unbeaten run when they welcome Levante to the Bernabeu next weekend.
Matt Law
