Key Takeaways
- Julian Alvarez scored for the second consecutive game, helping Atletico Madrid to a 1-0 victory over Deportivo La Coruna.
- Atletico Madrid closed the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona to two points.
- Alvarez apologised to Atletico supporters for trying to leave the club this summer.
Julian Alvarez scored the only goal as Atletico Madrid secured a 1-0 victory over Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday, narrowing the gap to La Liga leaders Barcelona by two points.
Alvarez, who had been under pressure from fans after attempting to leave the club this summer, apologised to supporters after the game, saying it was his 'mistake'.
Atletico Madrid are now second in the league, with Barcelona hosting Real Madrid in the Clasico at Camp Nou on Sunday.
Diego Simeone, the Atletico Madrid coach, expressed happiness that Alvarez had apologised, stating, 'It’s not easy to say sorry. I’m very happy for him; he will feel very at peace.'
Alvarez’s teammate Jan Oblak also spoke positively about the striker, saying, 'I’m happy for him, he’s giving the best of himself, a lot of effort, and I’m sure bit by bit he’ll win over the fans again.'
The game started slowly for Atletico Madrid, with Deportivo La Coruna having the best chance in the first half. Oblak made a crucial save from Lorenzo Amatucci.
Alvarez finally broke the deadlock early in the second half, turning a low pass from Alejandro Grimaldo over the line. He came close to a second goal but was denied by Leo Roman’s save.
Alvarez reflected on his performance, saying, 'I’m starting to feel good… I’m grateful to all my teammates because they’ve supported me. They’ve really stuck by me throughout this whole time.'
Deportivo La Coruna’s Kevin Sanchez missed two late chances, but Atletico Madrid’s Mikautadze scored a late goal in a separate match, securing a 2-1 win.
I understand people’s anger; I would have been angry too.
Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid striker
I’m very happy for him; he will feel very at peace.
Diego Simeone, Atletico Madrid coach
I’m happy for him, he’s giving the best of himself, a lot of effort, and I’m sure bit by bit he’ll win over the fans again.
Jan Oblak, Atletico Madrid goalkeeper
