Atletico Madrid Hold On For Priceless Win Against Real Sociedad

Atletico Madrid held on for a crucial three points against Real Sociedad at the Wanda Metropolitano on Wednesday, as goals from Yannick Carrasco and Angel Correa proved enough to earn a 2-1 win, despite a late scare, that moves them a step closer to the LaLiga Santander title.

The hosts made their intentions clear from the start, with a high press that so nearly saw them take the lead after just five minutes, but Luis Suarez’s acrobatic attempt while unmarked sailed over the bar.

It was then Marcos Llorente’s turn to spurn a golden chance, as he opted to go solo rather than square the ball to Suarez, with a left-footed attempt that was calmly gathered by Alex Remiro.

Their persistence paid off on 15 minutes, however, as Llorente this time did opt to pass and Carrasco, the grateful recipient, swivelled and then prodded the ball beneath Remiro for the opener.

Their lead was doubled on 27 minutes when Suarez drove at the opposition defence before slipping the ball through to Correa who expertly finished beyond the advancing goalkeeper.

Atletico dominated the opening half, although they had Jan Oblak to thank for two smart saves to deny Alexander Isak.

One of Los Rojiblancos failings this season has been in taking their foot off the gas when leading, but there was no sign of that on Wednesday night.

The second half started much like the second, with a frantic and aggressive display from Diego Simeone’s men.

The high press forced Real Sociedad into surrendering possession at the back, but Suarez couldn’t get the ball out of his feet and his scuffed effort failed to trouble Remiro.

As comfortable as Atletico were, the more they missed chances, the more La Real edged forward with confidence.

Oblak was called up on again, just after the hour mark, to deny Portu from close range, before the same player weaved his way into the box moments later and struck the post.

Eventually, the visitors found their way back into the game from a corner, as Igor Zubeldia was on hand to bundle home from six yards and set up a nervy last ten minutes for Simeone and co.

From looking comfortable all night, suddenly Atletico were camped inside their own box while La Real pushed men forward. Yet Atletico stood firm for the closing stages and held on for a priceless three points.

The win moves them four points ahead of Barcelona with two games left each, and five ahead of Real Madrid who have three matches remaining.