AFCON 2025
Atlético Madrid secured a vital 4-2 victory over bottom-placed Real Valladolid at the Metropolitano Stadium, maintaining their pursuit of La Liga leaders Barcelona.
Julián Álvarez was instrumental, netting two penalties to help Atlético recover from early setbacks.
Valladolid took an unexpected lead in the 21st minute when Mamadou Sylla converted a penalty awarded via VAR after a handball by Clément Lenglet.
However, Atlético responded swiftly; Álvarez equalized from the spot just four minutes later following a foul on Giuliano Simeone, who then scored to give Atlético a 2-1 advantage.
The visitors leveled the match again in the 56th minute when Javi Sánchez’s free-kick deflected off Conor Gallagher, deceiving goalkeeper Jan Oblak.
Álvarez restored Atlético’s lead in the 71st minute with another penalty after Marcos Llorente was fouled. Substitute Alexander Sørloth sealed the win with a rebound goal late in the game.
This victory brings Atlético to 63 points, trailing Real Madrid by three and Barcelona by seven, keeping their title aspirations alive. Meanwhile, Valladolid remains at the bottom with just 16 points, facing an imminent relegation.
