23rd December 2024 – (Madrid) Atletico Madrid concluded the year at the top of La Liga following a thrilling 2-1 victory against FC Barcelona, highlighted by Alexander Sorloth’s decisive left-foot finish in the sixth minute of injury time. The match, held at the iconic Camp Nou, showcased a dramatic shift in momentum.
Barcelona dominated the first half, deservedly taking the lead through Pedri’s goal in the 30th minute. They continued to press, with Raphinha striking the bar early in the second half. However, Atletico equalised in the 60th minute through Rodrigo De Paul, who scored the team’s first shot on target.
Despite missing a golden opportunity, Robert Lewandowski remained dangerous, while Atletico’s goalkeeper Jan Oblak made crucial saves to deny both Raphinha and Pedri. As Barcelona pushed for a winner, they were caught on the break. Nahuel Molina’s cross found an unmarked Sorloth, who netted the significant winner, propelling Atletico to 41 points, three ahead of Barcelona with one game in hand.
Real Madrid also moved above Barcelona, finishing the year in second place after a 4-2 victory over Sevilla. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring with a stunning goal in the 10th minute, followed by Federico Valverde doubling the lead shortly after. Rodrygo extended the advantage to 3-0 before Sevilla’s Isaac Romero pulled one back. Brahim Diaz then sealed the win for Madrid, despite Dodi Lukebakio scoring a late goal for Sevilla.
In other matches, Villarreal secured a 5-2 victory over Leganes, with Thierno Barry netting a hat-trick. Real Betis missed an opportunity to close in on the top six, drawing 1-1 with Rayo Vallecano. Valencia, meanwhile, remains in relegation trouble after a dramatic 2-2 draw with Alaves, salvaged by Dani Gomez’s equaliser in injury time.
