Atletico Madrid solidified their position in third place in the La Liga table with a commanding 3-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano on Thursday night.
In a match where both teams created several opportunities, it was Atletico’s superior precision in front of goal that made the difference, as Diego Simeone’s side clinched the Madrid derby in style.
The home crowd at the Metropolitano Stadium was treated to a clinical display of attacking football. Alexander Sorloth opened the scoring with a composed finish, setting the tone for the night. Midfielder Conor Gallagher, continuing his impressive run of form, doubled Atletico’s lead, before Julian Alvarez sealed the win with a well-taken third goal. Despite Rayo Vallecano matching Atletico in terms of chances created, their inability to finish was glaring, which ultimately cost them any shot at a result.
The win ensures that Atletico will at least secure a place in next season’s UEFA Europa League, though their sights remain firmly set on securing a top-four finish in La Liga to guarantee Champions League qualification. With just a few matches remaining, Simeone will be urging his men to maintain consistency and avoid any late slip-ups.
Elsewhere in La Liga, Real Betis delivered a crushing 5-1 home win against bottom-placed Real Valladolid, a result that officially confirmed Valladolid’s relegation to the second division. Jesus Rodriguez, Cucho Hernandez, Isco, Romain Perraud, and Ezza Abde all found the net in a performance that lifted Betis into fifth place, leapfrogging Villarreal.
In other action, Osasuna extended their winning streak to three games with a narrow 1-0 victory over Sevilla, courtesy of a stunning free-kick from Ruben Garcia. Sevilla’s hopes of survival took a hit after Dodo Lukebakio was shown red for violent conduct.
Meanwhile, Leganes fought back with 10 men to draw 1-1 against Girona, thanks to an injury-time equalizer from Munir el Haddadi.
Back in Madrid, Atletico will now focus on finishing their La Liga campaign strongly. With momentum on their side, Atletico Madrid remain a serious force as the season nears its conclusion in La Liga.