LaLiga: Atlético Madrid Rescue Point Against Celta Vigo Despite Being Reduced to 10 Men

Atlético Madrid salvaged a 1-1 draw against Celta Vigo thanks to Alexander Sørloth's late equalizer, despite being reduced to 10 men early in the game.

Atlético Madrid squandered the chance to leapfrog Real Madrid and claim top spot in the LaLiga standings, settling for a 1-1 draw against Celta Vigo. Despite being reduced to 10 men for the majority of the match, Atlético preserved their unbeaten home record in the league.

Diego Simeone's side was buoyed by Real Madrid's 1-1 draw earlier in the day and was eager to capitalize. However, their enthusiasm led to a reckless start, and Pablo Barrios was sent off after a VAR review for a studs-up challenge on Pablo Duran. The home crowd was frustrated, and Simeone's tactics were disrupted by the dismissal.

The match became increasingly physical, with multiple fouls disrupting the flow. Celta Vigo seized the initiative, and Atlético's promising season was put to the test. As the first half drew to a close, Duran, who had been on the receiving end of Barrios' early challenge, squandered a golden opportunity, side-footing tamely against Jan Oblak when one-on-one.

FT: #AtletiCelta 1-1

10-man Atleti fight back to earn a point at home. 🟰#LALIGAEASPORTS pic.twitter.com/oNqLJrjc3e

— LALIGA English (@LaLigaEN) February 15, 2025

Atlético Madrid's event had been turned upside down, and they were forced to regroup. Despite the setbacks, they managed to salvage a draw, thanks to a last-gasp goal from Alexander Sørloth. The result kept their unbeaten home run intact, but they missed the chance to take top spot in the LaLiga standings.

The second half began with Celta Vigo maintaining their dominance, dictating the pace of the game and controlling possession. Atlético Madrid's struggles continued, and another error proved costly when Robin Le Normand fouled Borja Iglesias, prompting the referee to award a penalty kick. Iago Aspas, returning from a six-game absence, calmly converted the spot-kick, sending the ball high into the net.

Diego Simeone responded to the setback by introducing attackers Alexander Sørloth and Ángel Correa, an unlikely duo with a significant height difference. However, Simeone's tactical switch paid off as Sørloth, the towering Norwegian forward, muscled his way past defenders before unleashing a powerful volley into the bottom corner.

Celta Vigo, visibly frustrated after a solid defensive display, pushed for a winning goal but were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. Atlético Madrid, meanwhile, held on to secure a crucial draw, ensuring they remain firmly in the LaLiga title race. The result keeps Atlético's hopes of domestic glory alive, setting up an intriguing battle for the top spot.