Nicolás González's impactful late double guided Atletico Madrid to a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Real Sociedad in a pulsating La Liga clash.
Atletico Madrid claimed a crucial 3-2 La Liga victory against Real Sociedad at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, with substitute Nicolás González proving to be the match-winner. His two goals, including a late decider, secured all three points for the hosts.
The hosts, third in the league, aimed to strengthen their Champions League credentials after a mixed run of recent results. Real Sociedad, currently eighth, sought to push for European places, arriving with inconsistent form themselves. Both teams were eager for a morale-boosting win.
The match began with a bang as Atletico Madrid quickly seized the initiative. In the 5th minute, Alexander Sørloth opened the scoring for the home side, expertly guiding the ball home after an assist from José María Giménez.
However, Real Sociedad responded swiftly, leveling the score just moments later. Carlos Soler found the net in the 9th minute, his strike equalizing for the visitors following a clever pass from Luka Sučić.
The game continued at a high tempo, with both teams battling fiercely for control. Atletico’s Dávid Hancko received a yellow card in the 20th minute for a challenge, highlighting the intensity of the early exchanges. The first half concluded with the score evenly poised at 1-1.
At the interval, with the score tied, both coaches had work to do. Diego Simeone surely stressed the need for his Atletico side to maintain their attacking pressure while tightening defensively. Imanol Alguacil would have urged Real Sociedad to remain disciplined and exploit counter-attacking opportunities.
The second half saw Real Sociedad's Oskarsson pick up a yellow card in the 49th minute. Atletico boss Simeone made tactical changes, introducing Ademola Lookman, Giuliano Simeone, and most notably, Nicolás González, between the 53rd and 54th minutes.
These substitutions immediately paid dividends as Nicolás González fired Atletico back into the lead. Assisted by Antoine Griezmann, the midfielder found the net in the 67th minute, sparking cheers from the home crowd.
Yet, the lead lasted barely a minute as Real Sociedad once again pulled level. Veteran forward Mikel Oyarzabal struck in the 68th minute, calmly slotting home to make it 2-2 and ensure a tense finale.
With the game finely balanced, Nicolás González delivered the decisive blow for Atletico in the 81st minute. Matteo Ruggeri provided a crucial assist, allowing González to complete his double and seal a thrilling 3-2 victory.
Atletico Madrid showcased superior attacking intent, registering 24 total shots with 9 on target, and an expected goals (xG) figure of 2.35. Real Sociedad managed only 7 shots, 3 on target, and an xG of 0.41, despite their clinical finishing. Atletico also held 52% of the ball possession.
This hard-fought win reinforced Atletico Madrid's hold on third place in La Liga, demonstrating significant character and resilience. Real Sociedad, despite twice equalizing, will leave the capital disappointed, remaining in the mid-table pack.
