Despite missing a penalty, Sevilla beat Atletico Madrid 1-0 in their latest La Liga match. The Rojiblancos’ loss means that the title race is now wide open. Barcelona, who play Real Valladolid later on Monday, can move to within one point of the league leaders, who at one stage seemed to have secured the title.
A Marcos Acuna strike twenty minutes from time helped Sevilla beat Atletico Madrid. While the result did not mean much in the short term as both teams stayed where they were on the table. However, it could have many lasting implications in the title race, with both Real Madrid and Barcelona suddenly in contention.
Atletico Madrid started the day with 66 points on the board. A win would have taken them to 69 – six ahead of second-placed Real Madrid. More importantly, it would have allowed them to open up a seven-point gap between themselves and Barcelona, who are due to play Real Valladolid in their next match. Nonetheless, the loss means that the Rojiblancos stay on 66 points for now. Barcelona could cut their lead down to just one if they win their game in hand.
Sevilla were by far the more dominant team in this one, averaging more possession while also recording more shots on goal. Julen Lopetegui’s men were rewarded for their efforts in the first half as they won a penalty. Saul had tripped Joan Jordan in the box, giving Lucas Ocampos a chance to break the deadlock. However, the Argentine saw his spot-kick saved by Jan Oblak, and the sides went into the break level.
Marcos Acuna finally opened the scoring for Sevilla in the 70th minute. He was picked at the far post by Jesus Navas and guided his header past Oblak in goal. Atletico Madrid were denied a late equalizer by the opposition goalkeeper Yassin Bounou, who stopped Angel Correa from close range.
Since game-week nine, Simeone’s men have been first on the table and are set to remain top for another week at least. However, Barcelona have caught up to them and have a chance to cut their lead down to just one point. The Blaugrana have been in fine form lately and have won their last five matches. They are also unbeaten in the league since December 13, 2020 – a run that extends to 16 games.
