Who has dominated the Madrid Derby in the Champions League and what are the key results?

​As of March 4, 2025, Real Madrid has established a dominant record over Atletico Madrid in their UEFA Champions League encounters. The recent 2-1 victory at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in the Round of 16 first leg, with goals from Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz, further solidifies Real Madrid's superiority in this prestigious European competition. ​

Historical Overview of Champions League Encounters

1958–59 European Cup Semi-Finals

The rivalry between these two Madrid-based clubs in European competitions began during the 1958–59 European Cup semi-finals. The first leg saw Real Madrid secure a 2-1 victory at Santiago Bernabéu. Atletico Madrid responded with a 1-0 win in the second leg at Metropolitano Stadium, leveling the aggregate score at 2-2. A playoff match held in Zaragoza determined the finalist, where Real Madrid triumphed 2-1, advancing to the final and eventually claiming their fourth consecutive European Cup. ​

2013–14 UEFA Champions League Final

After a long hiatus, the two clubs met again in the 2013–14 UEFA Champions League final. This historic match marked the first time two teams from the same city contested the final. Held at Lisbon's Estádio da Luz, the match was a rollercoaster of emotions. Atletico Madrid took the lead through Diego Godín, and it seemed they would secure their maiden European title. However, Sergio Ramos's dramatic 93rd-minute header forced extra time, where Real Madrid dominated, scoring three more goals to win 4-1, securing their coveted 'La Décima'—the tenth European Cup. ​

2014–15 Quarter-Finals

The following season, the rivals met in the quarter-finals. The first leg at Vicente Calderón Stadium ended in a goalless draw. The return leg at Santiago Bernabéu was equally tense, with Real Madrid's Javier Hernández scoring the solitary goal in the 88th minute, ensuring a 1-0 aggregate victory for Los Blancos. ​

2015–16 UEFA Champions League Final

The 2015–16 season saw another all-Madrid Champions League final, this time at Milan's San Siro Stadium. Real Madrid took an early lead with Sergio Ramos finding the net. Atletico's Yannick Carrasco equalized, pushing the match into extra time and eventually a penalty shootout. Real Madrid held their nerve, winning 5-3 on penalties, clinching their 11th European title. ​

2016–17 Semi-Finals

In the 2016–17 semi-finals, the first leg at Santiago Bernabéu witnessed Cristiano Ronaldo's masterclass, as he netted a hat-trick to give Real Madrid a commanding 3-0 lead. Atletico fought back in the second leg at Vicente Calderón, winning 2-1, but it wasn't enough to overturn the deficit. Real Madrid advanced with a 4-2 aggregate score and went on to win the final against Juventus. ​

Recent Encounter: 2024–25 Round of 16 First Leg

On March 4, 2025, Real Madrid hosted Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The match commenced with high intensity, reflecting the historic rivalry between the two clubs.​

Match Highlights

• Early Lead: Real Madrid's Rodrygo opened the scoring in the 3rd minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Atletico Madrid. ​
• Atletico's Response: Atletico Madrid's Julián Álvarez equalized before halftime with a stunning strike, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess. ​
• Decisive Goal: In the 55th minute, Brahim Díaz restored Real Madrid's lead with a brilliant finish, securing a 2-1 victory for the hosts. ​

Tactical Analysis

Real Madrid's manager, Carlo Ancelotti, employed a flexible 4-3-3 formation, allowing for dynamic attacking plays. The midfield trio effectively controlled possession, disrupting Atletico's defensive structure. Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid, known for their resilience, struggled to maintain their defensive solidity against Real Madrid's relentless attacks.​

Overall Head-to-Head Record in the Champions League

Including the recent match, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid have faced each other ten times in the UEFA Champions League. The breakdown of results is as follows:​

• Real Madrid Wins: 6
• Draws: 2​
• Atletico Madrid Wins: 2​

This record underscores Real Madrid's dominance in European encounters against their city rivals.