Atletico Madrid missed the chance to take the top spot in La Liga after being held to a 1-1 draw against Celta Vigo at the Metropolitano Stadium on Saturday. The game turned into an uphill battle for Diego Simeone’s side after midfielder Pablo Barrios received a red card just six minutes into the match.
With league leaders Real Madrid also drawing 1-1 earlier in the day against Osasuna, Atletico had a golden opportunity to close the gap. However, Barrios’ reckless tackle on Pablo Duran led to an early dismissal following a VAR review, leaving the hosts with 10 men for almost the entire match.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Atletico managed to keep Celta at bay in the first half. The visitors controlled possession but struggled to break down a well-organized defense. Antoine Griezmann played a key role in helping his team hold firm, putting in significant defensive work to cover the gaps left by Barrios’ absence.
Celta eventually found their breakthrough in the second half. A clumsy challenge from Robin Le Normand on Borja Iglesias led the referee to award a penalty. Veteran striker Iago Aspas stepped up and coolly slotted the ball past Jan Oblak, sending the Atletico goalkeeper the wrong way. The goal marked Aspas’ seventh league strike of the season and put the visitors ahead.
Needing a response, Simeone turned to his bench, bringing on Alexander Sorloth, Angel Correa, and Conor Gallagher. Atletico continued to search for an equalizer, and it was Sorloth who delivered in the 81st minute. The Norwegian forward muscled past Celta defender Carl Starfelt and fired a powerful shot into the near post, leveling the score for the Rojiblancos.
Celta pushed for a late winner in stoppage time, but Atletico’s defense held firm to secure a point. While avoiding defeat was crucial, the draw felt like a missed opportunity, especially given Real Madrid’s earlier result.
Barcelona, currently in third place, will have the chance to match Madrid’s points tally if they secure a win against Rayo Vallecano on Monday. Meanwhile, Atletico will need to regroup as they continue their push for the La Liga title.
