The Babazorros returned empty-handed from the Metropolitano Stadium after suffering a defeat against Atleti in the 20th round of La Liga. Alexander Sorloth determined the outcome of the match just two minutes into the second half.
With a perfectly timed assist from Pablo Barrios, the forward headed the ball past the left post, securing the only goal of the match.
Diego Simeone’s side posed a threat when Álex Baena hit the woodwork in the 69th minute with a powerful shot that nearly doubled the lead.
Sorloth was undoubtedly the standout player of the match, netting a goal, taking three shots on target, and completing 15 accurate passes.
Pablo Barrios also played a crucial role, achieving 69 successful passes, recovering possession twice, and attempting two shots at goal.
The Atlético Madrid coach deployed a 4-4-2 formation with Jan Oblak in goal, supported by a backline of Marcos Llorente, Marc Pubill, Dávid Hancko, and Matteo Ruggeri. The midfield featured Giuliano Simeone, Johnny Cardoso, Pablo Barrios, and Thiago Almada, while Alexander Sorloth and Julián Álvarez led the attack.
On the other side, Alavés, managed by Eduardo Coudet, utilized a 4-5-1 formation with Antonio Sivera as the goalkeeper, flanked by defenders Jonny Otto, Nahuel Tenaglia, Jon Pacheco, and Victor Parada. The midfield included Antonio Blanco, Carlos Vicente, Jon Guridi, Pablo Ibáñez, and Carles Aleñá, with Toni Martínez leading the front line.
The match was officiated by referee Guillermo Cuadra Fernández at the Metropolitano Stadium.
In their next matches, Atlético will host Mallorca, while the Babazorros will play against Betis at home.
This result leaves Atlético Madrid with 41 points, positioning them fourth in the standings, while Alavés remains at 19 points, sitting in 18th place in the league.
Substitutions for Atlético de Madrid
61’ 2T – Giuliano Simeone off for Koke, Julián Álvarez off for Antoine Griezmann, and Thiago Almada off for Álex Baena
77’ 2T – Johnny Cardoso off for Robin Le Normand
85’ 2T – Alexander Sorloth off for Nahuel Molina
Booking for Atlético de Madrid:
27’ 1T – Johnny Cardoso (Foul on opponent to prevent advancement)
Substitutions for Alavés
53’ 2T – Jon Guridi off for Denis Suárez
54’ 2T – Pablo Ibáñez off for Ander Guevara and Toni Martínez off for Lucas Boyé
68’ 2T – Carles Aleñá off for Abde Rebbach
80’ 2T – Antonio Blanco off for Aitor Mañas
Booking for Alavés:
6’ 1T – Pablo Ibáñez (Foul on opponent to prevent advance)