Vinícius Júnior scored twice as Real Madrid secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Sunday, keeping their title hopes alive.

The Brazilian forward converted a penalty in the 52nd minute to cancel out Ademola Lookman’s first-half opener before netting the winner with a curling strike in the 72nd minute.

Midfielder Federico Valverde had earlier put Madrid ahead 2-1, but Atletico responded through Nahuel Molina to level the match before Vinícius struck again.

The win keeps second-placed Madrid within four points of league leaders Barcelona with nine matches remaining.

Madrid had to endure a tense finish after Valverde was sent off for a late challenge, but they held on despite a late scare when Julián Álvarez hit the post.

The match marked Vinícius’ first La Liga goals against Atletico after a series of scoreless derby appearances.

“I have worked hard all season for games like this,” Vinícius said. “When this stage of the season arrives, the goals and assists just come.”

Coach Álvaro Arbeloa praised the forward’s performance, saying his goal came at a crucial moment and helped secure an important victory.

Atletico had taken the lead in the 33rd minute when Lookman scored after a well-worked move involving Giuliano Simeone.

Madrid turned the game around early in the second half, but Atletico equalised again before Vinícius delivered the decisive blow.

Elsewhere, Barcelona edged Rayo Vallecano 1-0, with Ronald Araújo scoring the only goal, while goalkeeper Joan García impressed.

Alavés staged a remarkable comeback from three goals down to beat Celta Vigo 4-3 — the first such away win in La Liga this century.

Meanwhile, Athletic Bilbao defeated Real Betis 2-1.