Atlético Madrid 1–1 Elche CF: Late Rally Earns Elche a Point at the Metropolitano

In a close LaLiga match at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Atlético Madrid drew 1–1 with newly promoted Elche CF on Saturday evening. Atlético still hasn’t won after two matches. Meanwhile, Elche keeps their unbeaten start to the season.

First Half: Dominance Without Reward

Diego Simeone’s side began brightly, controlling possession and creating the better chances. Jan Oblak was called into action early, tipping a fierce long-range drive wide. Atlético had their best chance in the 23rd minute. Marcos Llorente curled a shot that hit the crossbar. Atlético held 60 percent of the ball and took 11 shots, yet they were behind at halftime.

Second Half: Alvarez Strikes, Valera Replies

The deadlock was broken in the 57th minute. Julian Álvarez got a perfect through-ball from Rodrigo De Paul. He then scored past Matías Dituro, marking his first league goal of the season. Just as Atlético seemed poised to seize three points, German Valera struck back for Elche in the 78th minute. Valera picked up the ball at the edge of the area. He then curled a powerful shot into the top corner, tying the game.

Key Statistics

Shots (on target): Atlético 14 (4) – Elche 5 (2)
Possession: Atlético 60% – Elche 40%
Corners: Atlético 7 – Elche 3
Fouls: Atlético 12 – Elche 10
Yellow cards: Atlético 1 – Elche 1

Impact on Standings

Atlético Madrid is in 16th place, with only one point from two matches. They need to bounce back when they face Real Sociedad next weekend. Elche climb to 9th place on four points, having drawn both league fixtures so far. Their strong defense and sharp counterattacks could be key as they try to stay in the top half.

What’s Next?

Atlético heads to San Sebastián to play Real Sociedad on Saturday, August 30. Elche will host Granada at the Martínez Valero on Sunday, August 31. Both sides will look to build momentum as the season’s opening month reaches its conclusion.