Madrid got a narrow win against Atalanta in the first leg of the Champions League’s round of 16 tie.
Real Madrid edged out Atalanta 1-0 in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16, with the latter one being forced to play with 10 men on the field after the early exit of Remo Freuler due to a red card.
Despite the advantage, Madrid put on an unconvincing display until they found the winner through a brilliant late strike from Ferland Mendy.
Los Blancos found it hard to break the robust defence of Atalanta and it is quite understandable because of their weakened squad strength.
Zinedine Zidane had earlier expressed his frustration over his players getting injured often nevertheless the Frenchman vowed to fight for the title.
Madrid have extended their stretch to five consecutive wins across all competitions and today’s victory would be a great advantage given the away goal they scored.
Meanwhile, Gian Piero Gasperini would be disappointed with the narrow defeat although they were coming off an emphatic win against Napoli in Serie A.
Nonetheless, the tie looks to be never over as Madrid are hanging on to the lead by a mere goal advantage in the aggregate.
Furthermore, Atalanta carry a dangerous attacking unit that can unlock the defence of various teams but were unsuccessful tonight.
Madrid, who are second in the La Liga table, have to face Real Sociedad and local rivals Atletico Madrid before the second leg against Atalanta.
