When Atletico Madrid vs Alaves comes up on the La Liga calendar, fans expect intensity, tactics, and a few surprises. This fixture is never short of drama, and their most recent encounter lived up to the hype. From stunning goals to last-minute saves, the match was full of memorable moments. In this article, we dive into the three defining events that shifted the tide and explore how they shaped the final result.
Whether you’re a devoted Atletico fan, a loyal Alaves supporter, or just a football enthusiast, this breakdown gives you a clear view of how the match unfolded—and what made it unforgettable.
The Clash: High Stakes and Tactical Brilliance
Before we get into the key moments, it’s important to understand the stakes of this matchup. Atletico Madrid, known for their gritty defense and quick counters under Diego Simeone, came into the game needing crucial points to keep their Champions League dreams alive. Deportivo Alaves, fighting to stay clear of the relegation zone, had everything to prove.
Both teams entered the field with sharp tactics. atletico madrid vs alaves set up in their traditional 4-4-2 formation, while Alaves opted for a more compact 4-2-3-1, aiming to close spaces and frustrate the hosts.
The game kicked off with high energy. From the first whistle, both sides showed they were ready for a battle. The midfield was a war zone, and every ball was contested. But as the game progressed, three moments stood out above the rest.
Moment 1: Antoine Griezmann’s Opening Goal
The first turning point came in the 18th minute. After a tight start, Atletico began finding rhythm. It all started with a quick transition led by Koke. He spotted a run by Antoine Griezmann, who timed it perfectly to beat the offside trap.
Receiving the ball at the edge of the box, Griezmann showed why he remains one of La Liga’s finest. With a calm first touch and a clinical finish to the bottom right corner, he broke the deadlock.
This goal didn’t just put Atletico ahead; it forced Alaves to abandon their deep block and push forward. That change opened space in behind and shifted the entire tempo of the match.
Related Impact
Statistically, Griezmann’s goal was his 12th of the season, and it highlighted his key role as a difference-maker. His movement without the ball and ability to find space unsettled the Alaves defense. It also marked the seventh time in the season Atletico scored first at home—and they went on to win six of those previous games.
Moment 2: Alaves’ Equalizer and the Turning Tide
Just when it seemed Atletico would take control, Alaves struck back. The equalizer came in the 34th minute from a well-worked set piece. Midfielder Luis Rioja delivered a curling corner that found center-back Abdelkabir Abqar, who rose highest and powered in a header past Jan Oblak.
The goal stunned the Wanda Metropolitano. For a moment, the game balanced. Alaves, sensing Atletico’s momentary lapse, pressed harder and even had a second chance minutes later, which Oblak barely saved.
This moment changed the energy. It reminded Atletico that the game wouldn’t be easy and that Alaves had come to fight.
Tactical Reaction
In response, Diego Simeone made key changes. He asked his fullbacks to push higher, and midfielders like De Paul started pressing more aggressively. This tactical shift led to more possession and higher pressure zones for Atletico. The crowd, though nervous, got behind their team, adding to the urgency.
Moment 3: Morata’s Late Winner
With time running out and the game tied at 1-1, both sides pushed for a winner. Then came the most defining moment of the match. In the 84th minute, a long ball from Savic found Alvaro Morata inside the box. Under pressure from two defenders, Morata used his strength and composure to control the ball and smash it into the top corner.
The stadium erupted. That goal sealed the win for Atletico and showcased why Morata continues to be a key figure up front. It was his 10th goal of the season and a reminder of his ability to show up when it matters most.
Match Statistics Snapshot
- Possession: Atletico 56% – Alaves 44%
- Shots on Target: Atletico 6 – Alaves 3
- Corners: Atletico 5 – Alaves 4
- Fouls: Atletico 14 – Alaves 11
- Final Score: Atletico Madrid 2 – 1 Alaves
Key Takeaways From Atletico Madrid vs Alaves
The Atletico Madrid vs Alaves match was more than just a three-point grab. It was a test of character, adaptability, and strategy.
- Griezmann’s early goal gave Atletico a needed advantage and shifted Alaves’ game plan.
- Alaves’ equalizer showed resilience and added pressure on Atletico’s structure.
- Morata’s winner underlined the importance of experienced strikers in close games.
These three moments defined the outcome and gave fans a thrilling 90 minutes.
Player Performances That Stood Out
- Griezmann: Clinical and creative. Set the tempo early and gave the team confidence.
- Oblak: Made key saves that kept Atletico alive during dangerous Alaves attacks.
- Rioja: Delivered Alaves’ key set-piece and led several counters that created chances.
- Morata: Came alive late and showed classic striker instincts when it mattered most.
What This Means for Both Teams
Atletico Madrid’s Position
With this win, Atletico strengthened their hold in the top-four race. Every win counts in La Liga’s tight European race. The chemistry between Griezmann and Morata continues to be vital, while the midfield’s growing control bodes well for the remaining matches.
Alaves’ Outlook
Despite the loss, Alaves showed they can compete with the best. Their defense looked more organized, and the midfield duo handled pressure well for much of the game. Staying out of the bottom three is within reach if they build on performances like this.
FAQs – People Also Ask
Who scored in the Atletico Madrid vs Alaves match?
Antoine Griezmann and Alvaro Morata scored for Atletico Madrid, while Abdelkabir Abqar scored for Alaves.
How did Atletico Madrid beat Alaves?
Atletico Madrid beat Alaves 2-1 through a solid first goal from Griezmann and a late winner from Morata after a brief equalizer from Alaves.
What formation did Atletico Madrid use?
Atletico Madrid used a 4-4-2 formation with aggressive wing play and quick midfield transitions.
Is Griezmann in form this season?
Yes, Griezmann has been one of Atletico Madrid’s top performers this season with consistent goals and assists in key games.
What’s next for Atletico and Alaves?
Atletico Madrid continues to push for a top-four finish in La Liga, while Alaves fights to stay clear of relegation with upcoming mid-table clashes.
Conclusion
The latest Atletico Madrid vs Alaves clash delivered all the drama fans love. It was a game where moments truly mattered—moments that shifted control, changed tactics, and ultimately decided the outcome. From Griezmann’s opener to Morata’s match-winner, this game will be remembered for its high tension and brilliant execution. All categories and top stories are featured right on the homepage.