Atletico Madrid’s fading hopes of profitable the LaLiga title suffered a probably grievous blow on Saturday as they had been held to a goalless draw by relegation-threatened Alaves on the Mendizorrotza Stadium.
Atletico, who final gained LaLiga in 2021, dominated possession however lacked the invention and urgency to pierce an organised Alaves rearguard.
Diego Simeone’s facet remained third within the standings with 67 factors, 9 behind leaders Barcelona who journey to Real Valladolid in a while Saturday.
The first half was a cagey affair and not using a single shot on the right track, essentially the most notable second coming when Atletico ahead Julian Alvarez was dismissed for planting a excessive boot on Facundo Garces.
However, TV replays confirmed the problem was not as dangerous because it initially appeared and the purple card was modified to a yellow after VAR requested the referee to seek the advice of the pitchside monitor.
Antoine Griezmann made his first begin in three league video games however the Frenchman was unable to assist Atletico discover a path to aim because the guests did not report a shot within the opening 45 minutes.
Alaves had an opportunity early within the second half however Jon Guridi did not convert, sending a header huge after being left unmarked in Atletico’s penalty space.
Simeone introduced on attackers Alexander Sorloth and Samuel Lino and the substitutions sparked the competition into life, with Lino recording Atletico’s first shot on the right track within the 71st minute.
Alaves did the identical on the different finish as Kike Garcia’s side-footed effort from shut vary was expertly stored out by Jan Oblak.
Alaves keeper Antonio Sivera was stored very busy within the closing levels as Atletico pushed ahead, however the guests had been unable to discover a winner.
The draw moved Alaves as much as sixteenth, three factors away from the relegation locations.
“It’s a good point against a great opponent,” Alaves defender Garces stated.
“I’m very happy with the work we’ve done, this helps us to gain confidence and to add to our tally. We’re all on the same page. We have to keep pushing and make the stadium a fortress for the last two games here.”
Source: www.anews.com.tr