Real Madrid 1-1 Atletico Madrid: Key takeaways from the Derby

Real Madrid bloodied, but unbowed

In what has turned out be a limp defense of the hard earned La Liga crown, Los Blancos have been left far behind in the race. Yet, they just refuse to give up. And the unflinching resolve was on show Sunday too, as the hosts went all out from the opening whistle.

Manager Zinedine Zidane had one eye on the Juventus game as the four changes in the line-up would suggest. But, the team approached the game with all heart and conviction, driving forward with purpose and attacking with poise. The preposterous tally of 30 shots attempted on the evening, testifies the same.

Atletico, as it’s written on the tin, maintained a high defensive line and absorbed pressure. The resistance would eventually be broken as Ronaldo found space down the right to nonchalantly latch on to Bale’s lofting cross.

Despite having a more important game coming up in the midweek, the hosts tried to find the elusive winner that never came. But, it signified the fighting spirit this side imbued, even if there was little to fight for, from a larger perspective.