Athletico Madrid coach has succeeded in defeating Barcelona in La Liga as a coach for the first time in history as Athletico Madrid won the battle 1-0 at the Wanda Metropolitano on Sunday.
The hosts got the maximum points that drew them level on point with Real Sociedad for now with a late frst half strike from Yannick Carrasco.
It was also another bad night for the visitors, with Gerard Pique limping out of the game with an injury and Lionel Messi, who has just eight months left on his current deal failing to threaten.
It could be due to fatigue, having just returned from the international break that forced Ronald Koeman to allow him sit out Thursday training session.
Despite knocking on Athletico’s doors in the second half, Athletico was able to withstand the Barca pressure and ground out the win that made them joint topper on the table with Real Sociedad.
Athletico Madrid V Barcelona highlight
Carrasco’s solitary strike was enough for Simeone to get his first La Liga victory against Barcelona. The Argentine looked to be overjoyed over the outcome of the game as he rushed straight into the dugout after the final whistle.
The Belgian winger got the goal on the stroke of half-time, driving in from midway inside the Barcelona half with goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen having tried to beat him to the ball.
Barca then tried to restore parity but Atletico keeper Jan Oblak was not ready to let the ball past him as he saved Clement Lenglet’s effort, but the visitors were well below par.
The result leaves Barcelona 10th, with 11 points from eight games, nine behind Sociedad, who are only ahead of Atletico on goals scored.Both having the same goal difference, although Atletico have a game in hand.
This win means that Atletico’s unbeaten start to the season in La Liga continues. They have therefore stretched their unbeaten home run to 24 games in all competitions, while it was Barca’s third defeat in eight La Liga games.
Where can Barcelona finish this season after losing to Athletico Madrid?
With nine points separating Barcelona from the teams topping the La Laiga table, Barcelona’s title credentials are now being doubted.
But no one can judge any teams after playing nine games from 38. But if Barca fails to pick up, they are likely to just be fighting for the top four than the trophy.
It is hoped that Koman will be able to address the problems in the team and motivate them to get the needed results that can change the fortune of the team this season.
