(Football news) Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 against Rayo Vallecano. Diego Simeone continued with his 4-4-2 formation with Antoine Griezmann and Alvaro Morata up front. Axel Witsel came back into the midfield after being on the bench for the previous two games. Joao Felix was once again named on the bench and this time he didn't even come on as a substitute. Jan Oblak didn't recover in time as Ivo Grbic started between the sticks. Radamel Falcao started for the 2nd time this season and he was looking in good touch against his former club. Atlético Madrid came into the match having won their last 4 La Liga games.
Atlético were in complete control of the game and opened the scoring in the 20th minute via Alvaro Morata who was set up by Antoine Griezmann. The two strikers have been combining really well ever since the international break. The goal was Morata's 5th in La Liga this season as he is continuing to lead the Rojiblancos attack. Griezmann was constant threat for Rayo Vallecano in the first half as he was given a free role by Diego Simeone. Rayo started getting more chances in the 2nd half as Atleti stepped off the gas a little. Radamel Falcao had an incredible chance in the 70th minute but Grbic managed to make the save. The Colombian did get another opportunity as Rayo got a penalty after Jose Gimenez handled the ball in the box. Falcao ended up haunting his old club by converting the spot kick.
The result is a big blow to Atletico Madrid who have been very inconsistent this season. If Real Betis and Real Sociedad win their next game, Atleti will drop down to 5th on the La Liga table. Rayo Vallecano drew against Barcelona at the Camp Nou and has now held Atletico Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano. Andoni Iraola's side is now strong on 10th spot in the table. Atlético's next match is away at Betis after which they have a do or die game in the UCL against Bayer Leverkusen. Simeone will be hoping that Jan Oblak returns to full fitness in the coming days.
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