Angel Correa scored a late equalizer for Atlético Madrid, securing a 1-1 draw against Real Madrid in a heated LaLiga derby on Sunday. The match was interrupted for over 20 minutes due to crowd disturbances, with fans throwing objects onto the pitch, particularly targeting Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The stoppage occurred in the 69th minute, shortly after Éder Militão had given Real Madrid the lead. Following the delay, Atlético ramped up their efforts and managed to equalize when Correa capitalized on a counter-attack in the fifth minute of added time.
With this result, Real Madrid currently holds the second position in the league with 18 points, trailing Barcelona by three points and maintaining a two-point lead over Atlético Madrid in third place after eight matches.
Atlético captain Koke commented on the tension in the match, noting that such incidents should not occur in football. He emphasized that while the actions of a few individuals cannot tarnish the reputation of the entire stadium, it is vital for players to maintain professionalism.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti made tactical adjustments to reinforce his midfield, especially in the absence of key forward Kylian Mbappé due to injury. Luka Modric, nearing 40 years old, was brought in to stabilize the midfield, which had suffered from the retirement of Toni Kroos earlier in the summer.
Uruguayan midfielder Federico Valverde stepped up to fill the role of playmaker, facilitating most of Real’s attacking plays. He came close to scoring on several occasions during the first half.
After halftime, Atlético showed more energy, particularly after Diego Simeone introduced Brazilian winger Samuel Lino, who injected vitality into their attack. However, it was Real who struck first, as Militão scored following a swift cross from Vinícius Júnior.
As Real celebrated the goal, objects were thrown onto the pitch, prompting the referee to momentarily halt the game and send the players to their dressing rooms while warnings were issued about the behavior of the crowd.
Once play resumed, Atlético maintained pressure, and although a late attempt from Real’s Endrick nearly doubled their lead, it was Correa who would ultimately find the net after a swift counter-attack, sealing the draw for Atlético.
The match concluded with a red card for Marcos Llorente, leaving Atlético with ten players after he was penalized for a tackle.