Match report: Atlético snatchs the three points in a back-and-forth affair

It was a tough battle in San Mamés, but Atlético Madrid emerged with the whole points after a back-and-forth affair against the hosts, Athletic Bilbao, in game weak 9 of La Liga.

A goalless first half and a tight affair led to a different second half as the visitors scored after just two minutes through Antoine Griezmann.

Since that goal, the whole game changed to be just a continuous pressure from the hosts with brave defending from the visitors and remarkable performance from the substituted goalkeeper, Ivo Grbic, who replaced Jan Oblak after 69 minutes of play.

 

Man of the match:

Atlético’s defender, Reinildo, produced amazing defending statistics during his 90 minutes performance.

the most tackles (9), the most duels (13), the most successful duels (11) with 4 clearances, 3 blocked shots and 4 interceptions.

 

Disappointing Performance:

It was a game to forget from Athletic Club’s Nico Williams.

The Spanish international failed to impress during his 80 minutes presence on the pitch before being substituted by Asier Villalibre.

 

Match Facts:

Antoine Griezmann has scored his 100th goal for Atlético Madrid in La Liga, becoming the club’s sixth player to reach this figure in the competition.

 

What the result means for both teams:

Atlético moved up to the 3rd position with 19 points, just three points away from the top spot, while Athletic Club dropped to the 4th place with 17 points.

 

What is next for both teams:

Atlético will host Rayo Vallecano at Wanda Metropolitano on Tuesday18 October 2022, while Athletic Club will visit Getafe at Coliseum Alfonso Pérez on Tuesday18 October 2022.