Real Madrid edge Atletico in penalty shootout to reach Champions League quarter-finals

Real Madrid secured a dramatic spot in the Champions League quarter-finals, overcoming Atletico Madrid via a penalty shootout after the tie ended 2-2 on aggregate.

Atletico made a dream start, wiping out their first-leg deficit within 27 seconds as Conor Gallagher met Rodrigo De Paul’s cross to fire past Thibaut Courtois.

Despite the early goal, Diego Simeone’s side sat back, allowing Madrid to dominate possession without creating clear chances.

In the 70th minute, Los Blancos had a golden opportunity to seal progression after Clement Lenglet pulled down Kylian Mbappe in the box.

However, Vinicius Junior squandered the penalty, blasting his shot high and wide.

With no further goals, the match went into extra time, but both teams remained cagey, leading to a penalty shootout.

The spot-kicks were filled with controversy, as Julian Alvarez’s converted effort was ruled out for a double touch.

This proved decisive as Marcos Llorente missed for Atleti, allowing Antonio Rudiger to bury the winning penalty for Madrid.

Real Madrid will now face Arsenal in the quarter-finals, while Atletico Madrid’s wait for European glory continues.