Video shows tunnel clash as two sent off during tense Madrid derby

Two members of staff were sent off after a confrontation involving Atletico de Madrid and Real Madrid players and officials in the tunnel at half-time of Sunday’s Madrid derby.

The match at Wanda Metropolitano was goalless after an ill-tempered first half, but tensions escalated as the teams left the pitch. Players, coaching staff and administrative personnel from both clubs became involved in an incident at the entrance to the tunnel leading to the dressing rooms.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the referee dealt with the confrontation by dismissing one representative from each side. One of those sent off was a member of Atletico de Madrid’s coaching staff, while the other was one of Jose Mourinho’s assistants at Real Madrid.

Antonio Rudiger and Hjulmand also had to be separated after becoming involved in the exchanges. Neither player was sent off, with the referee intervening to prevent the confrontation from developing further.

The first half had already been marked by repeated fouls and clashes between the players. Referee Ortiz Arias was frequently required to step in, while the match officials also had to review an incident involving mistaken identity with the assistance of the video assistant referee (VAR).

Real Madrid also appealed for a possible red card for Kang-in after a forceful challenge from behind on Valverde. Their request was not upheld.

Footage from the tunnel showed players and staff being kept apart as the teams made their way back to the dressing rooms, underlining the level of tension that had built up during the opening 45 minutes.