ATLETICO MADRID 4-2 REAL MADRID - ATLETI CLAIM EXTRA TIME WIN TO BOOK COPA DEL REY QUARTER FINAL SPOT

 Atletico Madrid Stun Real Madrid in Epic Copa Del Rey Clash, Sealing Quarter-Final Spot with Grit and Griezmann Magic

The Wanda Metropolitano witnessed a night of pure footballing drama as Atletico Madrid, fueled by unwavering determination and a touch of Griezmann brilliance, toppled archrivals Real Madrid 4-2 in the Copa del Rey Round of 16.

It was a pulsating encounter that transcended the 90 minutes, with both sides trading blows and refusing to yield. The narrative swung like a pendulum throughout the night, leaving fans at the edge of their seats until the very final whistle.

The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams sizing each other up. Atletico, marshalled by the ever-vocal Diego Simeone, defended resolutely, frustrating the Galacticos' attacking trio of Benzema, Vinicius Jr., and Hazard. The closest Atletico came in the opening period was through Alvaro Morata, who saw his effort parried away by Andriy Lunin in the Real Madrid goal.

The second half exploded into life with a flurry of goals in a six-minute spell that redefined the tie. Marcos Llorente, Atletico's energetic midfielder, broke the deadlock in the 57th minute, his deflected shot finding the back of the net. However, Real Madrid's response was swift and clinical. Eden Hazard, in vintage form, equalized just two minutes later, slotting home a precise finish after a slick passing move.

The drama was far from over. Morata, Atletico's talismanic striker, restored the lead for the Rojiblancos in the 63rd minute, heading home from a pinpoint Kieran Trippier cross. But just as Atletico seemed to be in control, Real Madrid struck back again. Substitute Joselu, with eight minutes remaining, rose highest to meet a Toni Kroos corner and head the ball into the net, sending the tie into extra time.

Extra time proved to be Atletico's moment of glory. With the Bernabeu faithful starting to dream of a comeback, Antoine Griezmann, the prodigal son, stepped onto the stage and delivered a moment of pure magic. Intercepting Vinicius Jr. near the halfway line, Griezmann embarked on a mesmerizing solo run, weaving past defenders before coolly slotting the ball past Lunin. It was a goal of audacious skill and composure, silencing the Real Madrid fans and igniting the Wanda Metropolitano.

The coup de grace came in the 119th minute, with Rodrigo Riquelme putting the icing on the cake for Atletico. The young winger pounced on a Real Madrid defensive error, racing clear and slotting the ball past Lunin to seal the historic win.

The Wanda Metropolitano erupted in a cacophony of red and white ecstasy. This victory wasn't just about reaching the Copa del Rey quarter-finals; it was a statement of faith, a testament to Simeone's unwavering belief, and a victory for the indomitable spirit of the Atletico faithful. It was a reminder that even when the odds are stacked against them, Atletico are a force to be reckoned with, capable of pulling off the unthinkable.

Real Madrid, on the other hand, were left to lick their wounds. After their Super Cup triumph last week, this defeat stings deeply. Questions will be asked about their defensive lapses and their inability to close out the game.

But for now, the night belongs to Atletico Madrid. They stand tall in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals, their hearts full of pride and their minds set on bigger prizes. The Wanda Metropolitano still echoes with the chants of their adoring fans, a testament to a night etched in Madrilenian folklore.

This epic encounter between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid was a spectacle of footballing drama, a true Copa del Rey classic. It served as a reminder of the beauty, passion, and raw emotion that this competition can evoke. And for Atletico Madrid, this victory was more than just a win; it was a declaration of intent, a message to the world that they are back, and they are ready to fight for every trophy.