LaLiga: Atletico Madrid's Unbeaten Run Comes to an End with Shock Defeat to Leganes

Leganes pulled off a stunning 1-0 upset over Atletico Madrid, ending the LaLiga leaders' 15-match winning streak across all competitions.

Atletico Madrid's impressive 15-match winning streak across all competitions came to a shocking end as they suffered a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Leganes. The LaLiga leaders' title bid was dealt a significant blow, with Matija Nastasic's header and Antoine Griezmann's missed penalty proving to be the decisive factors in the match.

Leganes, buoyed by their Copa del Rey win over Almeria, started strongly and almost caught Atletico Madrid off guard in the opening minute. Juan Cruz's first-time shot curled agonizingly wide of Jan Oblak's right post, setting the tone for a determined Leganes performance. Atletico Madrid, who had dispatched Elche in their respective cup tie, gradually began to assert their dominance, with Julian Alvarez threatening to score in a third consecutive game.

However, Alvarez's right-foot strike clipped the outside of the far post, and Atletico Madrid's frustration grew as the woodwork continued to thwart their efforts. Antoine Griezmann and Conor Gallagher joined Alvarez in striking the frame of Marko Dmitrovic's goal, leaving Atletico Madrid ruing their misfortune. Despite their dominance, Atletico Madrid failed to capitalize on their chances, and Leganes made them pay in the second half.

Leganes took a surprise lead just three minutes into the second half, with Matija Nastasic powering a header home from Dani Raba's out-swinging corner. The former Manchester City defender got away from his marker, and his header proved to be the decisive moment in the match. Atletico Madrid's attempts to equalize were thwarted, including a missed penalty by Antoine Griezmann, as Leganes secured a historic 1-0 victory over the LaLiga leaders.

In an attempt to spark a comeback, Diego Simeone made a double substitution just 10 minutes after Matija Nastasic's goal, introducing Koke and Marcos Llorente from the bench. However, Leganes were determined to hold on to their lead and nearly doubled their advantage through Juan Cruz, who fired over the bar after creating a promising opportunity in the Atletico Madrid box.

All over in Leganés. pic.twitter.com/7E7X02ZNBT

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) January 18, 2025

The turning point in the match came in the closing stages when the referee awarded Atletico Madrid a penalty after a VAR review revealed that Sergio Gonzalez had handled the ball in the box. Antoine Griezmann, known for his reliability from the spot, stepped up to take the penalty but surprisingly dragged his shot harmlessly wide. The Leganes faithful erupted in joy, knowing that Griezmann's miss had all but secured a famous victory for their team.

The win over Atletico Madrid marks a significant milestone for Leganes, who also defeated Barcelona in December. The victory propels Leganes five points clear of the relegation zone, providing a crucial boost to their survival hopes. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid's defeat leaves them vulnerable to dropping down to second place by the end of Matchday 20, adding pressure to their title bid.