Match report from the Atleti-Real Madrid derby: tunnel expulsions

The Atlético Madrid vs Real Madrid derby went into the break with the home side leading (2-1), but, according to the match report cited by Mundo Deportivo, the tunnel became the real talking point. After the first half, there was a clash between players and members of both teams’ coaching staff, starting with Rüdiger and Hjulmand.

Incidents after half-time

The referee’s report says that at the 45th minute, the referee showed Pablo Vercellone a red card. The reason stated in the report is that he confronted a technician from the opposing team in the players’ tunnel once the first half had finished, sparking a collective confrontation between players and staff.

Shortly after, that same chain of events led to the second red of the break. Also at the 45th minute, Pedro Machado, Mourinho’s assistant, was sent off for confronting a technician from the other side in the tunnel after the first half and for triggering a disturbance involving both dugouts.

Delay to the restart

Along with those expulsions, the report notes a direct consequence for the restart: the second half began five minutes later than scheduled. The referee states that the visiting team delayed their exit onto the pitch.

Overall, the act turns what began as tension in the tunnel into a collective altercation with two red cards before the match resumed, as Mundo Deportivo explains based on the official account.