In a thrilling encounter, Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League last-16 clash. The match showcased the brilliance of Rodrygo and the timeless talent of Luka Modric, reinforcing why the Champions League remains Real’s domain. Rodrygo opened the scoring just four minutes in, showcasing his exceptional skill as he maneuvered past defenders and unleashed a stunning shot past goalkeeper Jan Oblak. This marked Rodrygo's fourth-minute goal as another crucial contribution to his impressive tally in Europe, further solidifying his status as a key player for the club.

Despite Rodrygo's early brilliance, the match was tightly contested. Atlético equalized through Julián Álvarez, whose powerful and bending shot left Real keeper Thibaut Courtois stunned. However, Brahim Díaz restored Real's lead against the run of play, demonstrating the team's resilience. While Real was not always convincing throughout the match, they managed to secure the win, giving them a narrow advantage heading into the return leg at the Metropolitano.

Luka Modric's introduction in the later stages of the match added a new dimension to Real's play. Even at 38, Modric displayed his unrivaled ability to control the tempo and influence the game, bringing life and creativity to his teammates. His presence on the pitch transformed Real's performance, allowing them to settle into a rhythm that showcased their experience and skill. As the team prepares for the second leg, they will draw upon the brilliance of players like Rodrygo and Modric, continuing their pursuit of Champions League glory.