Manager Zinedine Zidane was clear that despite their Champions League thumping of Juventus, Real Madrid were not going to be in for an easy ride against 'Los Colchoneros'. So it proved, but despite Atletico's stubbornness, Real failed to take full advantage of their long spells of domination.
When the hosts did eventually find a breakthrough, it did nothing but stir Atleti into life, with Antoine Griezmann levelling the scores almost immediately. Neither side was able to find a winner late on, despite Real's best efforts, and after the game, Gareth Bale was once again the subject of serious criticism following a subdued performance.
Jorge Valdano was among those to criticise the Welshman, with the former Real Madrid player, manager and sporting director saying: "Nothing Bale does is worth €100m and that's how much he cost."
On the other hand, the commentator did become the latest in a long line of people to heap praise on Cristiano Ronaldo. "Cristiano felt comfortable everywhere in attack, he's very confident at the moment," Valdano explained.