The striker delivered a standout performance, scoring twice against his former club, while the Italian found decision-making to be off in several moments.
Over recent seasons, Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid have seemed to rise above the usual pressures of the most consequential matches. The squad exudes a calm that borders on invincibility when the stakes are highest, a perception that stems from Ancelotti’s clear system, trusted players, and guiding philosophy. Adjustments occur, yes, but opponents have not managed to force dramatic, game-changing shifts.
Yet on this occasion, Ancelotti appeared to misjudge a tactical approach against Atlético, delivering one of his less convincing performances in the Madrid tenure. Early on, Morata found the back of the net to give Atlético the lead as the derby kicked off. Griezmann followed with a swift header, and Morata sealed a double in the second half, repeating the same method: a left-sided cross finished with a header past Kepa. Madrid’s only reply came from Toni Kroos, whose shot from outside the box found space in the first half.
The decision to change shape came late, with Ancelotti abandoning the new setup and reverting to the 4-4-2 diamond that had underpinned Madrid’s strong start to the campaign. By then, the damage was done, and the derby unfolded with tactical misreads and defensive gaps that left Madrid exposed and under pressure from the first whistle.
GOAL see who were the winners and losers of the Metropolitano…