As part of the 20th day of La Liga, Atlético de Madrid saw its series of 15 victories interrupted this Saturday, after a surprise defeat against Leganés (1-0). Despite a dominated first period, the Colchoneros were unable to materialize and paid dearly for a missed start to the second half. They therefore see their leading position threatened, Real Madrid plays on Sunday.
For almost three months, Atlético de Madrid had been among the most consistent teams in Europe, stringing together 15 consecutive victories in all competitions. The Colchoneros hoped to continue this dynamic when they travel to Leganés this Saturday. However, the meeting ended short for the Indios, who, surprisingly, experienced a real trap on opposing soil.
In a bubbling Butarque, Atlético quickly took control of the game, but Julian Alvarez (11th, 13th), Antoine Griezmann (26th) and Conor Gallagher (29th) saw their attempts repelled by the uprights or by an unfit Dmitrovic grace on his line, thus preventing the visitors from realizing their domination before the break.
Upon returning from the locker room, Atléti lost its liveliness. Less incisive, Diego Simeone’s men quickly conceded a goal from the first Leganés corner, where Matija Nastasic, the former Manchester City player, got the better of Pablo Barrios to deceive Oblak (1-0, 49th). From then on, the Colchoneros were forced to chase the score, but came up against a well-organized local defense for a long time. Dmitrovic, as imperial as ever, continued to frustrate Diego Simeone’s attackers. At the very end of the match, Antoine Griezmann had the opportunity to equalize from the penalty spot, but he failed to make it (90th).
-Good news for Leganés
A little disillusionment, which comes at the wrong time, for Diego Simeone’s men, three days before an important meeting, that of the Champions League against Bayer Leverkusen. Lacking realism and luck, Atlético also saw its series of 15 victories come to an end and tasted defeat again, the first since October 27 against Betis. Although still leader, Atlético could see Real Madrid take the lead in the standings if the latter wins on Sunday against Las Palmas.
For Leganés, on the contrary, it is good news. Already defeated by FC Barcelona in December (1-0), the team, promoted this season, offers itself a real positive blow and gives itself a little breathing room in the fight for maintenance compared to the three relegated, Alavés, Valladolid and Valencia.
