Spanish champions Atletico Madrid laid down a big statement for the season after claiming a hard-fought 2-1 win against city rivals Real Madrid on Saturday night at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The win is the second time in the last three matches Atletico have beaten their more illustrious rivals after previously going 14 years without a league win over Real.
Real had star man Cristiano Ronaldo back from injury and the reigning Ball on d’Or holder pulled Real back on level terms with a 26th minute penalty after a header from Tiago had given Atletico a 10th minute lead.
Ronaldo’s goal spurred Real to apply sustained pressure on their visitors but failed to find the target through efforts by Ronaldo, James Rodriguez and Pepe while Karim Benzema had an effort saved easily.
Gareth Bale also had an effort saved on the hour mark as Real searched desperately for a winner which the visitors got against the run of play with 14 minutes left to play.
Mere moments after shooting just wide of goal, Arda Turan found the target for Atletico, firing into the bottom from close range off a cross by Juanfran.
Atletico endured more pressure from Real to claim what could prove a crucial win in the Last Liga title race this season.
The win put Atletico within two points of league leaders Barcelona that earlier claimed a 2-0 win at home to Athletic Bilbao courtesy of a brace from Brazil star Neymar.