Atlético Madrid return to the Metropolitano today, knowing they must respond after a frustrating 1-1 draw with Mallorca. Diego Simeone’s side had the lead, missed a penalty, and then saw Alexander Sørloth sent off in the 72nd minute before conceding late. That result extended Atlético’s poor run to just one win in six competitive games this season (D3, L2), leaving their manager under early pressure.
Defensive lapses late in matches have been a recurring issue, with decisive goals conceded after the 84th minute in their last two fixtures. Injuries are also taking a toll, with Álex Baena, José María Giménez, Thiago Almada, and Johnny Cardoso all expected to miss out. On a positive note, Julián Álvarez is back from injury and will be eager to make up for his missed penalty last weekend. Softfootball also reported that the Argentine was visibly angry with the choice to substitute him during the Mallorca game.
Atlético Madrid’s Starting XI posted on the team’s official X account:
Rayo Vallecano head into the clash without a win in their last three matches (D2, L1). However, Inigo Perez’s side has shown resilience, coming from behind to draw 1-1 in each of their last two games. Rayo haven’t beaten Atlético since 2013, losing 14 of the 18 meetings since then, but they’ll take confidence from their draw in this fixture last season.
Rayo Vallecano’s official starting XI uploaded on the teams official X account:
Atlético remain strong at home, unbeaten at the Metropolitano since April (W5, D1), and they’ve scored before half-time in each of their last four home games against Rayo. For the visitors, Álvaro García has been a bright spark, directly involved in three of their last four away goals.
