Real Madrid emerged victorious in a breathtaking encounter against Atletico Madrid, winning 5-3 after extra time in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final held in Saudi Arabia. This win propels them into the final, where they will face either Barcelona or Osasuna.

The match at Al-Awwal Park stadium in Riyadh was a goal-fest from the outset. Mario Hermoso and Antonio Rudiger exchanged headed goals early on, setting the tone for a high-scoring affair. Ferland Mendy then put Madrid in front, only for Antoine Griezmann to level the score, achieving a personal milestone by becoming Atletico’s all-time leading scorer. Follow your favourite La Liga team with attractive La Liga odds from Nextbet. 

The drama intensified when Kepa Arrizabalaga’s own goal gave Atletico the lead. However, Dani Carvajal’s equalizer for Madrid forced the game into extra-time, keeping the fans on the edge of their seats.

In extra-time, with the match looking destined for penalties, a stroke of misfortune for Atletico saw Stefan Savic concede an own goal, giving Madrid the lead. Brahim Diaz then sealed the victory for Real Madrid on a counter-attack, exploiting Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak’s positioning.

Despite the loss, the match was significant for Antoine Griezmann, who surpassed the late Luis Aragones as Atletico Madrid’s all-time top scorer with 174 goals. His achievement adds a silver lining to Atletico’s performance.

The match was not without controversy, with Madrid protesting for a foul in the lead-up to Atletico’s third goal. Additionally, Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos faced jeers from the crowd following his previous comments on players moving to Saudi Arabia.

Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid, the only team to defeat Real Madrid this season, showed resilience and tactical nous but ultimately fell short against the might of their city rivals.

Real Madrid, now unbeaten in 20 matches, awaits their opponent for Sunday’s final, with Barcelona or Osasuna set to face them. The Spanish champion and reigning Super Cup winner Barcelona will be eyeing a repeat of last season’s Clasico final if they overcome Osasuna. Get the latest updates from the La Liga only on Nextbet Sports.