Atletico Madrid missed the chance to take the La Liga lead after a 1-1 draw at home to Celta Vigo on Saturday, playing most of the match with 10 men following Pablo Barrios’ early red card.
With Real Madrid having drawn 1-1 at Osasuna earlier, Diego Simeone’s side aimed to capitalize on their home advantage at the Metropolitano.
However, Barrios’ sending-off in the sixth minute for a reckless high tackle on Pablo Duran left Atletico with a tough task. After a VAR review, Barrios was dismissed, putting the Rojiblancos on the back foot.
Celta made the most of their numerical advantage, and Iago Aspas put them ahead in the second half with a penalty after Robin Le Normand fouled Borja Iglesias.
Atletico responded in the 81st minute when Alexander Sorloth, introduced as a substitute, finished powerfully inside the near post to equalize. The Norwegian striker continued his impact as a super-sub this season, rescuing a point for his side.
Despite Celta’s control in possession, Atletico’s defense, with plenty of contributions from Antoine Griezmann, kept them largely in check, limiting their chances. Celta goalkeeper Vicente Guaita had a relatively quiet game, saving a tame effort from Marcos Llorente.
With Atletico down a man, Simeone made several changes, bringing on Sorloth, Angel Correa, and Conor Gallagher for a final push. While Celta threatened in stoppage time, Atletico held firm to secure a draw.
Though Atletico would have hoped for a win after Real Madrid’s draw, they now sit two points behind the leaders. On Monday, Barcelona, currently third, can level with Real Madrid if they beat Rayo Vallecano.
