Kylian Mbappe scored in his first capital derby against Atletico Madrid as Real Madrid fought back for a 1-1 draw and kept its slim lead of the Spanish league on Saturday (Feb 8). Next up for Mbappe and Madrid is a trip to Manchester City on Tuesday for the first leg of their Champions League knockout round playoff. Julian Alvarez put Atletico ahead from the penalty spot in the 35th minute. Mbappe equalized in the 50th for the hosts, which stayed one point ahead of Atletico in the standings.
Kylian Mbappe rescued a point for Real Madrid in a tense derby with city rivals Atletico Madrid as the hosts remained top of LaLiga.
Diego Simeone's side had gone in front through a controversial 35th-minute penalty converted by Julian Alvarez, who chose the 'Panenka' style approach from the spot, chipping the ball down the middle as goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois dived past.
The referee pointed to the spot after going to the video assistant referee (VAR) monitor as Aurelien Tchouameni was adjudged to have fouled Samuel Lino.
Five minutes after the break, Mbappe scored his 16th league goal of the season when he reacted quickest after Jude Bellingham's shot bounced into his path.
Bellingham had a greater impact in the second half, heading on to the crossbar and having a shot saved by Jan Oblak as Madrid pushed for a winner.
The result left them a point clear of second-placed Atletico, with FC Barcelona five points behind Carlo Ancelotti's side. However, Barca could close the gap on Sunday evening when they travel to Sevilla (20:00 GMT).
Focus now turns to the UEFA Champions League for Real Madrid, who travel to Manchester City for the first leg of the knockout phase play-offs.
