Alarm for Atletico

25/08/2025 23:37:00 FieldFrenzy

After a winless opening match, Atletico Madrid, despite substantial investment, found themselves powerless to break through a boldly defensive Elche.

After only two games, alarm bells have rung for Diego Simeone’s Atletico — one of the teams with the most aggressive squad rebuilding based on the number of contracts funded by the club. After a comeback defeat to Espanyol in Cornella, the red-and-white striped team allowed Elche to hold them to a draw at the Metropolitano, despite an early goal from Sorloth.

The visitors immediately fought back and quickly equalized thanks to a goal from Rafa Mir — a striker Simeone had once tracked. For a project expected to be stable, falling into early tension and heavy pressure is a shock to everyone, along with disappointment from the Metropolitano stands. Most worrying is the inability to create chances in the second half against Elche, a significant downside for Simeone and his players.

Atletico started strongly, pressing high and playing vertically — a tactical innovation Simeone applied to generate momentum after a trophyless season. This energized the crowd, but Elche remained resolute. Coach Eder Sarabia stayed committed to a ball possession philosophy, daring to take risks with goalkeeper Dituro frequently pushing up like a center-back more than 40 meters from goal to help build play.

Despite heavy transfers, Atletico’s start was utterly disappointing.

This "tightrope" playing style also exposed gaps behind the defense, and Hancko quickly noticed Sorloth’s smart movement. The first chance turned into a goal, a vital strike for the Norwegian forward to prove himself amid rumors he might be sold due to the crowded attacking options.

But that was all. Elche’s excellent ball control forced Atletico to drop deep and wait for counterattack chances. Sorloth missed his second opportunity after a combination with Julian Alvarez and Almada. He hesitated, allowing Dituro to rush out and save. From that corner, Elche launched a decisive counterattack. Only four Atletico players retreated in time, allowing German Varela to comfortably switch the play, Alvarez Rodriguez to pass back to Rafa Mir, who scored past Oblak. Once again, just like at Cornella, Atletico quickly lost their lead.

The conceded goal lowered the morale of Simeone’s players. Atletico tried to bounce back but failed. Pressure increased after halftime. Only Almada was a source of inspiration with sharp passes. Alone, he was not enough. A disappointing start, and if not quickly improved, Atletico will have to say farewell to the La Liga title race right from the outset.

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