Spanish Super Cup: Real Madrid beat Atletico 5-3 in extra-time thriller to reach final

Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid 5-3 in a gripping semi-final that extended beyond the regular 90 minutes to secure their place in the final of the Spanish Super Cup.

The game was evenly poised at 3-3 after normal time, suggesting that penalties might decide the outcome. However, Real Madrid's resolve shone through in extra time. A pivotal own goal by Atletico's Stefan Savic and a last-minute strike from Brahim Diaz, who capitalized on an empty net as Atletico's goalkeeper Jan Oblak had ventured forward in a desperate attempt to equalize, sealed the victory for Real Madrid.

Antonio R¼diger had an eventful match, scoring for both teams, while Atletico's Antoine Griezmann made history by surpassing Luis Aragonés as Atletico's all-time top scorer. The match was not just about the goals; it featured exceptional technique and unexpected scorers, including defenders Mario Hermoso, Ferland Mendy, and Dani Carvajal.

"It was a back-and-forth match," Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said. "They did well in the first half and in the second we were able to improve. Both teams played very well. It was a spectacular match, we won because we had a bit more energy in the end."

Real Madrid's win was characterized by a mix of superb play and defensive errors, with the team showing more stamina towards the end, according to coach Carlo Ancelotti. This victory extends Real Madrid's impressive unbeaten run and sets up a thrilling final against either Barcelona or Osasuna. The two Madrid rivals will meet again soon, promising more intense football action in the Copa del Rey and the Spanish league.

Atletico and Madrid also met in the 2020 Super Cup final, with Madrid winning on penalties in what marked the first time the competition was taken to Saudi Arabia in a lucrative multi-year deal for the clubs and the Spanish soccer federation.