The last time Julián Álvarez faced Real Madrid, a mistake in a penalty shootout cost Atlético de Madrid a painful defeat. However, Álvarez redeemed himself on Saturday by scoring two crucial goals in the 5-2 victory over the eternal rival in the La Liga derby.
Álvarez shines in the Madrid derby
The Argentinian striker overshadowed Kylian Mbappé, who also scored for Real Madrid, which at one point had a 2-1 lead. Álvarez converted a penalty to put Atlético ahead 3-2 at the start of the second half, and then sealed his performance with a masterful free kick that went into the rival goal.- The triumph in the derby could be the turning point for Atlético’s season.
- Real Madrid’s defeat “hurts.”
We knew how special this day was, it was a derby and we needed the three points to reduce the gap with those above. We had control of the match and the team never stopped going forward. We created many scoring chances and were able to convert them.
Julián Álvarez
Simeone seemed to wipe away tears after Álvarez’s second goal.In the end, each penalty is a new shot, each match is a new opportunity.
Julián Álvarez
Atlético needed this victory to stay in the fight for the title, after having had their worst start in La Liga since Simeone took over more than a decade ago. Álvarez, who arrived from Manchester City last season, has been key to the team’s recovery this week. The striker came from scoring his first hat-trick in Europe on Wednesday, in the 3-2 victory against Rayo Vallecano.I have many emotions. This season started with difficulties, but thanks to the effort of so many people we are doing a wonderful job.
Diego Simeone
He works very hard and helps us not only in attack but also with his pressure in defense. We need him and we have to take care of him because he is very good. I hope he can stay at this club for a long time.
Diego Simeone
