Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw at the Metropolitano against Atletico Madrid left the team feeling disappointed, especially after being so close to securing victory.
Correa’s equalizer in the final moments of the match dashed Real Madrid’s hopes of a win, as their defensive lapse in the last attack spoiled what could have been three valuable points.
Despite this setback, Real Madrid’s point tally rose to 18, putting them in second place in La Liga, just three points behind leaders Barcelona, who have 21 points.
According to information from the Spanish newspaper *El Nacional*, the game’s outcome might have been different if substitute Endrick, who entered the game in the final minutes, had been able to finish a key counterattack. During this crucial play, Endrick, along with teammates Jude Bellingham and Lucas Vázquez, participated in what could have been the game-winning move.
However, instead of converting the chance, Endrick missed the target, sending his shot wide of Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak’s left post. This miss sparked frustration among some of his teammates, particularly Fede Valverde and Bellingham, who were visibly disappointed by the missed opportunity.
Endrick’s miss also reminded many fans of a previous situation against Stuttgart, where the young Brazilian did manage to find the back of the net in a similar scenario. However, this time, the pressure proved too much, and his wayward shot cost Real Madrid a crucial chance to secure all three points. Following the match, tensions were high among the players, and
Fede Valverde did not hold back his criticism. In the tunnel leading to the dressing room, Valverde reportedly confronted Endrick, expressing his frustration. Valverde told the young forward, “You cannot play alone, we must control the match… and in the end, they drew.” Valverde’s words emphasized the importance of teamwork and game management, especially in the dying moments of tight matches like this one.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti intervened to defuse the situation between Valverde and Endrick, attempting to restore calm in the aftermath of the match. While acknowledging Valverde’s frustration, Ancelotti also praised the progress Endrick has made since joining the team.
Despite the error, the Italian coach expressed his satisfaction with the young Brazilian’s development, recognizing that, at just 17 years old, Endrick is still maturing as a player. Ancelotti believes that, with time and experience, Endrick will grow into a more complete and composed player, capable of handling high-pressure moments like the one against Atletico.
Regarding the team’s tactical approach, *El Nacional* also highlighted that Ancelotti’s decision to play in a 4-4-2 formation influenced Endrick’s role in the match. There had been discussions about whether Real Madrid would switch to a 4-3-3 formation, especially with Kylian Mbappé sidelined due to injury.
However, Ancelotti opted to stick with the 4-4-2, which ultimately limited Endrick’s involvement, as he was not included in the starting lineup. As a result, the former Palmeiras starlet will need to be patient and wait for his opportunity to earn a regular spot in the starting XI.
while Real Madrid’s draw with Atletico Madrid was a frustrating result for the team, it also highlighted the challenges and growing pains faced by young players like Endrick.
Despite the missed chance and post-match tension, the club remains optimistic about the Brazilian’s future, with Ancelotti confident that he will continue to develop and improve as the season progresses.
