Real Madrid Wins 3-2 Derby Over Atletico, Alexander-Arnold Key

Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid in Sunday's La Liga derby at the Santiago Bernabeu, with Trent Alexander-Arnold playing a pivotal role off the bench despite his recent omission from the England national team squad.

The 27-year-old former Liverpool defender, who joined Real Madrid on a free transfer last summer after his contract expired at Anfield, started on the bench for the match. He entered the game shortly after the hour mark, replacing veteran Dani Carvajal, and provided the assist for Vinicius Junior's winning goal 18 minutes from time. Vinicius scored twice overall, while Federico Valverde added a third for the hosts. Atletico responded through goals from Ademola Lookman and Nahuel Molina, keeping the contest tight until the end. The drama intensified late when Valverde received a straight red card, leaving Real to defend their lead with 10 men, but they held firm to claim all three points.

The benching came amid reports that Alexander-Arnold arrived late to a team meeting or training session earlier in the week, breaching the club's code of conduct. Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa declined to confirm the disciplinary aspect when...