Two Expulsions in Metropolitano Tunnel Brawl During Madrid Derby

Tension defined Sunday’s Madrid derby between Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid, escalating sharply in the tunnel leading to the pitch at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium.

The first half ended goalless, but as players and technical staff exited the field, a physical confrontation broke out involving personnel from both clubs’ coaching and administrative teams.

According to the Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, the referee issued two dismissals: one from Atlético Madrid’s technical staff and one from Real Madrid’s coaching setup.

The report specified that an Atlético Madrid coaching staff member was dismissed, while one of José Mourinho’s assistants at Real Madrid received a red card.

On-field incidents before halftime

Multiple fouls and clashes occurred throughout the first half, prompting frequent interventions by the match official. Referee Ortiz Arias consulted the video assistant referee (VAR) to review an incident involving mistaken identity.

Real Madrid also appealed for a potential red card against Kang-In, citing a violent rear tackle on Valverde; the appeal was unsuccessful.

Additional confrontations

Antonio Rüdiger and Hjulmand became involved in a separate altercation during the match, requiring intervention by the referee to separate them. Neither player was dismissed.