Atletico Madrid Soars to Third Place with 2-1 Victory Over Alaves

Madrid, Oct 29, 2023 (Reuters) - In a thrilling LaLiga clash on a sunny Sunday afternoon, Atletico Madrid put on a performance to remember as they clinched a 2-1 home victory over the underdog Alaves. The match, which played out at the iconic Wanda Metropolitano stadium, was a spectacle of footballing prowess and skill that saw Atletico secure their spot in third place on the league table.





The victory, sweet and hard-fought, was crucial for Atletico, who now stand at 25 points in the LaLiga, just three points behind leaders Real Madrid and second-placed Girona. It's an excellent position for Diego Simeone's side, with a game in hand, to make their title ambitions known. Their one-point lead over the mighty Barcelona, who reside in the fourth position, sets the stage for an intense competition this season.

The match's early drama unfolded in the 26th minute when Rodrigo Riquelme, an exciting talent emerging in Atletico's ranks, demonstrated his scoring prowess. A well-placed cross from Alvaro Morata found Riquelme, who made no mistake, burying the ball in the back of the net with a precise strike from close range.

Atletico's supporters roared with excitement, well aware that their team was inching closer to their desired victory. But the first half held another moment of magic as Alvaro Morata, an experienced figure in the squad, showcased his individual brilliance. Just as the first half was about to conclude, Morata embarked on a solo journey that left the Alaves defense bewildered. His clinical finish ensured that Atletico went into the break with a comfortable two-goal lead.

In the second half, Alaves demonstrated commendable resilience. Although positioned in the lower half of the LaLiga standings, they weren't ready to bow out without a fight. The Alaves midfielder, Ander Guevara, emerged as an unexpected hero. Deep into added time at the end of the game, Guevara's low, precision strike from the edge of the box found its mark, nestling in the bottom left corner. It was a moment that breathed life back into the contest.

The goal by Ander Guevara added a layer of drama to the match, with Alaves refusing to concede defeat without a fight. However, Atletico Madrid's defense, known for its resilience, held strong and managed to protect their lead, securing a crucial victory in front of their fervent home crowd.

This victory was a testament to Atletico's unbeaten home record in LaLiga. The team has now won an impressive 14 consecutive home games, equaling their best record achieved at the now historic Vicente Calderon stadium from May 2012 to February 2013. The Wanda Metropolitano has become a fortress where they have consistently demonstrated their dominance.

It's not just their home record that's turning heads; Atletico Madrid's offensive prowess has been eye-catching as well. They've matched Manchester City's 72 goals scored in 2023, putting them in an elite club among teams in Europe's top five leagues. They sit only behind Borussia Dortmund, with 78 goals, and Bayern Munich, with 77. This offensive firepower, combined with a resilient defense, makes them a formidable force in LaLiga and beyond.

As Atletico moves up to the third spot in the LaLiga standings, the race for the title intensifies. The gap of just three points separating them from the league leaders has the fans filled with hope. With a game in hand, Atletico Madrid is firmly established as a formidable contender.

Looking ahead, the remainder of the season promises exciting football battles, and Atletico Madrid is right in the mix. The skill, determination, and teamwork displayed by Diego Simeone's side have made their supporters believe that this season could be special.

The stars are aligning for Atletico Madrid, and the footballing world is watching with anticipation as they continue their journey in pursuit of LaLiga glory. The race for the title is far from over, and Atletico has declared themselves as true contenders with their electrifying performance against Alaves.

Atletico's coach, Diego Simeone, was understandably delighted with the team's performance, praising both the squad's young talents and seasoned veterans. "We are building a strong and balanced team. Our youngsters, like Rodrigo Riquelme, are thriving and adding a fresh dimension to our game. And when you have players like Alvaro Morata displaying the experience and skill they did today, it's a great feeling as a coach," said Simeone in a post-match press conference.

Simeone's sentiments were echoed by the fans who, week after week, pack the Wanda Metropolitano to support their beloved team. The "Rojiblancos," as they are affectionately called, are known for their unwavering loyalty and passionate support. Their fervor has been instrumental in creating an electrifying atmosphere at home matches, providing the team with that extra boost of motivation.

This season, Atletico's impressive run at home has brought back memories of their iconic Vicente Calderon stadium, where the team experienced a similar spell of dominance from May 2012 to February 2013. Those who were fortunate enough to witness those glory days undoubtedly see a reflection of that era in the current squad.

The Vicente Calderon, which holds a special place in the hearts of Atletico fans, was a fortress. And now, the Wanda Metropolitano, with its modern amenities and passionate supporters, is establishing itself as a new fortress of footballing excellence. The legacy continues.

While Atletico's home record is a testament to their strength, their attacking prowess cannot be overlooked. In 2023, they've joined an elite group of teams in Europe's top five leagues by scoring 72 goals. This milestone places them in the company of powerhouses like Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayern Munich. Atletico's attacking philosophy, combined with Diego Simeone's trademark defensive discipline, has created a potent recipe for success