MADRID: Real Madrid got its title defense off to a winning start when a deflected shot by new signing Wesley Sneijder earned a 2-1 comeback victory against city rivals Atletico at the Bernabeu on Saturday.

The Dutchman's miscued shot spun off a defender and ended up in the back of the net after Guti had rolled a free kick into his path 10 minutes from time.

The game between the Primera Liga's two biggest spenders was played at a frenetic pace with the sides playing open, attacking soccer. But Bernd Schuster's Real looked more dangerous in front of goal and deserved the win.