The rivalry between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, famously known as the Madrid Derby, is one of the most iconic in football history. These two Spanish giants have clashed numerous times across various competitions, creating unforgettable moments for fans worldwide. In this article, we explore their head-to-head record, key matches, and the significance of this fierce rivalry.
Head-to-Head Record
As of March 2025, Real Madrid has faced Atlético Madrid 239 times in competitive matches. Here’s a breakdown of their results:
| Competition | Real Madrid Wins | Atlético Wins | Draws |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Competitions | 117 | 59 | 63 |
| La Liga | 91 | 41 | 44 |
| Champions League | 6 | 2 | 2 |
| Copa del Rey | 10 | 5 | – |
| Supercopa de España | 1 | 1 | – |
Key Highlights:
- Real Madrid leads the overall rivalry with 117 wins, compared to Atlético’s 59 victories.
- The first-ever La Liga match between the two teams occurred in the 1928-29 season, with Real Madrid winning 2-1.
- In European competitions, Real Madrid has dominated, winning 6 out of 10 Champions League encounters, including two finals (2014 and 2016).
Historic Matches
The Madrid Derby has delivered some iconic games over the years. Below are a few standout moments:
1. Champions League Finals
- 2014 Final (Lisbon): Real Madrid triumphed 4-1 after extra time, securing their historic “La Décima” (10th European title).
- 2016 Final (Milan): The match ended in a 1-1 draw, but Real Madrid won on penalties, claiming their 11th Champions League trophy.
2. La Liga Encounters
Real Madrid has been dominant in La Liga with 91 wins. However, Atlético’s last league win at the Santiago Bernabéu came in February 2016.
3. Copa del Rey
Atlético managed a memorable victory in the 2013 Copa del Rey final, defeating Real Madrid 2-1 at the Bernabéu.
Recent Meetings
Here’s a look at their last few encounters:
| Date | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Mar 4, 2025 | Champions League (Round of 16) | Real Madrid 2-1 Atlético |
| Feb 8, 2025 | La Liga | Real Madrid 1-1 Atlético |
| Sept 29, 2024 | La Liga | Atlético 1-1 Real Madrid |
| Jan 18, 2024 | Copa del Rey | Atlético 4-2 Real Madrid |
Top Scorers in the Rivalry
Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for most goals scored in the Madrid Derby with an incredible 22 goals during his time at Real Madrid. On Atlético’s side, legends like Paco Campos and Adrian Escudero have left their mark with significant contributions.
Why Is This Rivalry Special?
The Madrid Derby is more than just a football match; it represents a clash of cultures and ideologies:
- Real Madrid: Known as “Los Blancos,” they symbolize global success and dominance.
- Atlético Madrid: Representing the working-class spirit of Madrid, they are often seen as underdogs who thrive on grit and determination.
This rivalry has shaped Spanish football for over a century and continues to captivate fans worldwide.
Conclusion
Real Madrid has beaten Atlético Madrid an impressive 117 times, showcasing their dominance in one of football’s most celebrated rivalries. However, Atlético has had its fair share of memorable victories, keeping the competition alive and unpredictable. Whether it’s La Liga or the Champions League, every encounter between these two teams is a spectacle filled with passion and history.
