Watch: Real Madrid seals Copa Del Rey title on penalties as Valverde foul denies Morata potential Atletico winner

January 12, 2020 By Emmanuel K. Budu-Annor

Topics: Copa Del Rey, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Federico Valverde, Alvaro Morata

The midfielder's tackle turned out to be the most important play as his side run away as victors.

A last-ditch tackle by Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde was enough to deny Alvaro Morata a potential winner for Atletico Madrid in Sunday's Copa Del Rey Final. The Uruguayan midfielder was given his marching orders after hacking down Los Rojiblancos' striker whose run at goal could have easily sealed victory for his side prior to their penalty shootout loss.

Yet again, fortune favored the men in white as they could have seen their hard work undone by a prospective late goal by Morata in the second half of extra-time. Having played out a goalless draw after 90 minutes, the former Los Blancos forward was presented with a glorious opportunity to fire his side into the lead in the 114th minute.

However, what could have been the potential decider was never witnessed as he was brought down by Valverde while he raced away with only Thibaut Courtois left to beat. Being the last man, the Uruguay international was shown a straight red card while Atletico Madrid made nothing out of the resulting free-kick right behind the 18-yard box.

Real Madrid fans are calling for Federico Valverde to be given a statue after this so-called 'tackle' he was awarded Man of the Match too! pic.twitter.com/EvzMp6QGeG
— The Sun Football (@TheSunFootball) January 12, 2020

Real Madrid would go on to grab a 4-1 win on penalty shootout with Sergio Ramos scoring the winning kick. Prior to the Spanish defender's feat, Thibaut Courtois saved Thomas Partey's attempt after Saul Niguez had hit the post with his.

Meanwhile, despite the red card Federico Valverde was still adjudged the Man of the Match.