Third place is expected to be the maximum for Atletico Madrid in the Spanish La Liga this season. But the Madrilenians keep it consistent: With a 3-0 (1-0) win against FC Varlencia on matchday 26, coach Diego Simeone’s team increased their lead in fifth place to nine points for the time being.
Antoine Griezmann gave the hosts the lead on Saturday evening (03/18/2023) with a direct shot from the penalty area (23rd). Valencia also scored shortly afterwards, but the VAR took back the goal from Hugo Duro (29th) because there had been a foul in the formation.
Shortly after the restart, Yannick Carrasco increased for Atletico (49th). Thomas Lemar, who had just come on as a substitute, made it all clear with a header from five meters to make it 3-0 (67th). Gaya hit the post for the guests (78th). Valencia could not avoid the 14th defeat. This leaves the traditional club with 26 points in acute danger of relegation in 17th place.
On Sunday in Spain, among other things, the absolute top game is on the program when leaders FC Barcelona welcome pursuers and arch-rivals Real Madrid to “El Clasico” (9 p.m.).