Atletico Madrid Edge Athletic Club 1-0 to Claim Top Spot

Atletico Madrid moved to the top of the LaLiga table after a narrow 1-0 win over Athletic Club, thanks to a late goal from substitute Julián Alvarez.

Atletico Madrid secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Athletic Club in a thrilling LaLiga match, earning their third consecutive head-to-head win and temporarily claiming top spot in the league. The significance of this fixture between the division's third and fourth-placed teams was amplified by Real Madrid's defeat to Real Betis Balompie, highlighting the tight competition for higher positions.

The match began with both teams creating promising opportunities within the first 10 minutes. Robin Le Normand headed over the bar, while Jan Oblak rushed out to deny Inaki Williams a scoring chance. The attacking intent displayed by both teams was matched by determined defensive efforts, as Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta had two shots blocked and Andoni Gorosabel prevented Alexander Sorloth from getting a clean header.

As the half-hour mark approached, Giuliano Simeone showcased his pace with a lung-bursting run down the flank. However, his progress was halted by Unai Simon, and his subsequent low cross to Antoine Griezmann was intercepted by Yeray Alvarez. The intensity of the match was evident, with both teams creating scoring opportunities and displaying resolute defensive play.

The match continued to ebb and flow, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. Dani Vivian blocked a strike from Samuel Lino, while Alexander Sorloth headed over the bar. At the other end, Inaki Williams hit the side netting following a loose pass from Rodrigo De Paul. Sorloth's header was then blocked on the line by Vivian, and Alex Berenguer was denied at the end of a swift counterattack by Athletic.

The second half began with the same intensity as the first, although clear-cut opportunities were scarce. Samuel Lino's header was saved, and the match seemed to be heading for a stalemate until Diego Simeone made a triple substitution in the 59th minute. Moments later, Alex Berenguer fired straight at Jan Oblak, and Mikel Jauregizar curled an effort wide. However, Julián Alvarez made a decisive impact, scoring just seven minutes after coming on.

FT: #AtletiAthletic 1-0

Impact sub Alvarez saves the day for Atleti. ✅❤️#LALIGAEASPORTS pic.twitter.com/WUn4AQug49

— LALIGA English (@LaLigaEN) March 1, 2025

Marcos Llorente played a perfectly weighted pass that Alvarez latched onto, and the Argentine coolly finished to give Atletico Madrid the lead. Athletic Club were left stunned when Benat Prados and Inaki Williams both hit the woodwork, and Prados went close again shortly after. Nahhuel Molina then deflected another Williams strike onto the crossbar, securing a crucial 1-0 victory for Atletico Madrid. This win marked their 10th consecutive unbeaten match across all competitions, propelling them to the top of the table ahead of Barcelona's match against Real Sociedad.