real madrid atletico super cup final 5-3 reach

Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid 5-3 in a thrilling Saudi Arabia battle to reach the Spanish Super Cup final.

Real Madrid emerged victorious over Atletico Madrid in a thrilling match in Saudi Arabia, securing a 5-3 win after extra time to advance to the Spanish Super Cup final. The game at the Al-Awwal Park stadium in Riyadh saw early goals from Mario Hermoso and Antonio Rudiger, but Ferland Mendy and Antoine Griezmann soon followed with goals of their own. Kepa Arrizabalaga's own goal put Atletico ahead, but Dani Carvajal's strike forced extra time. Stefan Savic's own goal and a counter-attack goal from substitute Brahim Diaz sealed the win for Madrid. They will face either Barcelona or Osasuna in the final.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praised both teams for their performance, noting that his team's energy in the final stages made the difference. Atletico, the only team to defeat Madrid this season, started strongly, with Hermoso and Griezmann scoring early goals. However, Madrid's unbeaten streak of 20 matches saw them take control, and Mendy's goal put them ahead. Griezmann's milestone goal leveled the score, making him Atletico's all-time leading scorer. A gripping first half saw both teams creating chances, with the game tightening in extra time. Madrid's victory sets up a possible Clasico final against Barcelona.

Atletico will face Real Madrid three times in under a month, with their next clash coming in the Copa del Rey. Midfielder Koke expressed a desire for revenge, but manager Diego Simeone disagreed, emphasizing that each game is different. The match was marked by intense performances from both teams, with Madrid's energy in the final stages proving decisive. This win sets up an exciting final and potentially more thrilling encounters between the Spanish giants.