A narrow win further secured Atletico’s place in La Liga’s top four.
Atletico Madrid defeated Real Madrid 1-0 in their La Liga game on Sunday. Diego Simeone’s side claimed a hard-fought win over the Blancos, who struggled to convert their chances.
No guard of honour and no points for La Liga champions!
As confirmed by Simeone before the game, Atletico refused to applaud Real Madrid players upon their entry to the pitch.
A close battle in the first half saw Atletico go ahead 1-0 through Yannick Carrasco’s spot-kick in the 40th minute. A foul by Jesus Vallejo convinced the referee to award the hosts a penalty upon review by VAR.
Real Madrid came close to scoring the equalizer through Toni Kroos and Luka Jovic. However, they failed to convert their chances, with Jan Oblak making a few impressive saves.
The guests showed a better performance in the second half, establishing their control over the possession after the interval. However, Atletico’s constant threats on counter-attacks kept them at bay for the remainder of the game.
The Blancos went all-in with their attacks after the 80th minute, but a mixture of lack of composure from their forwards and Atletico’s solid defence prevented them from escaping the defeat.
What’s next for Atletico and Real Madrid?
Having already won the league title, Real Madrid have shifted their focus on their upcoming Champions League final against Liverpool.
Before that, however, the Blancos must face Levante in their next La Liga game on Thursday.
On the other hand, Atletico secured their place in the league’s top-four, keeping pressure on Sevilla for the third spot. The Rojiblancos will meet Elche on Wednesday.
Player Ratings
Atletico Madrid: Oblak (8); Vrsaljko (6), Savic (7), Gimenez (7), Reinildo (6); Llorente (6), Koke (7), Kondogbia (7), Carrasco (8); Correa (5), Cunha (7).
Bench: Griezmann (6), Lodi (6), Felipe (7), De Paul (6).
Real Madrid: Lunin (6); Vazquez (6), Militao (5), Vallejo (5), Nacho (7); Camavinga (6), Casemiro (6), Kroos (5); Asensio (6), Jovic (5), Rodrygo (7).
Bench: Valverde (7), Mendy (6), Modric (6), Vinicius (7).
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