Photo: Wikimedia Commons (free licence), cropped and styled by SportNestra — author and licence
Too many obstacles for Alavés: Ángel Pérez’s sending-off and Atlético’s composure denied the Vitoria side the chance to take points. Reduced to ten for half an hour, the team eventually gave way to a goal from Cuti Romero in the 87th minute, as the competition returned to Mendizorroza after the break. Alavés fell just three minutes short of repeating the resistance it showed at San Mamés three weeks earlier.
The “Glorioso” started well, pressing aggressively to win the ball in the opposition half. Atlético nevertheless controlled the situation by keeping possession. After the visitors took the lead, a penalty awarded following Le Normand’s foul on Toni Martínez allowed Lucas Boyé to equalise just before half-time. It was the forward’s fifth goal of the season.
Despite the equaliser, Alavés struggled to link up with its two forwards, with Atlético’s defensive work playing a major part. After Ángel Pérez was sent off, Quique withdrew both strikers. His plan was to use Mariano’s pace on a counter-attacking move. Alavés did create a clear chance while Atlético pushed for a winner, but Romero’s goal soon afterwards ended its hopes.
Alavés has now gone four matchdays without a win, although its position remains comfortable.
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