Alaves and Atletico Madrid played out a goalless draw at the Estadio de Mendizorroza, with both teams creating chances but ultimately failing to capitalize. Atletico Madrid pushed for a late winner with a spell of patient possession in the dying moments, exchanging short passes around the edge of the Alaves box to try and carve out a chance after extra minutes were added.
The match was marked by drama, including a red card for Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez in the 40th minute for a foul that was reviewed by the officials. The forward was shown the red card following a challenge that was deemed serious enough to warrant an early exit from the game. This decision added further drama to the match, with Atletico now down to 10 men.
Despite being a man down, Atletico Madrid still managed to create chances, but Alaves’ defense held firm. Kike Garcia nearly broke the deadlock for Alaves with a moment of real quality inside the box, but the Atletico Madrid goalkeeper was equal to it, producing a sharp low save to deny the forward and keep the score level.
Alaves had a golden chance to break the deadlock when a well-delivered free kick found Jon Guridi unmarked in the box, but his header from close range was woefully off target, sailing high over the bar. Ander Guevara of Alaves received a yellow card for a poor foul, bringing the first caution of the game.
The first half came to a close with the score tied at 0-0 between Alaves and Atletico Madrid. Despite some late pressure, neither team could break the deadlock, leaving everything to play for in the second half. In the end, both sides were forced to settle for a goalless draw, with Atletico Madrid’s 10-man defense holding firm against Alaves’ attacks.
The result means that Atletico Madrid will have to continue their pursuit of a top finish without the luxury of a win, while Alaves will be pleased to have held on for a point against a strong opponent.