Atletico Madrid vs Real Sociedad: Five key talking points

Today’s league match between Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad at the Anoeta was an important one for both the sides. Atletico Madrid were five points off the pace at the top and a loss even at this initial stage would’ve meant a blow to their title hopes. On the other hand Real were only clear of the relegation zone thanks to their goal difference .

The match was a cakewalk for Atletico who walked away as the victors scoring twice  even though they were not at their best today and Real had more of the ball . Koke made his return from injury and controlled the midfield along with the ever solid Gabi . So here are the five talking points from the match at Anoeta today which ended 2-0 to Atletico. 

Griezmann is still the most important player for Simeone and he proved it again by scoring a beautiful chip past the Sociedad goalkeeper Rulli after beating 3 defenders with his blistering pace and brought his goal tally to 5 from 6 games. Playing at his former homeground, the striker put in another performance to remember.

Koke’s return saw him provide a great one touch assist to Griezmann which was netted beautifully by him. Koke along with Gabi provided a strong cover for the Atletico centre backs. He was key to other counter-attacks also . His return will certainly give Atletico a big push for the rest of the season.

Jackson had another game to forget . He was largely missing from the game and his first touch was heavy and ineffective . He was substituted by Simeone around the hour mark with Torres coming on in place of him . The £25 million striker joined Atletico at the start of the season and has managed to score just 1 goal in 6 appearances .

Atletico’s defence looked organized and solid . Real Sociedad were unable to trouble Godin and Gimenez and goalkeeper Oblak had an easy afternoon . Apart from one threatening corner, Sociedad were unable to offer any scare to Atletico’s defence .

5. Moyes needs some magic :

Real Sociedad are very close to the relegation zone and have had only one victory this season . Today’s performance saw a poor defencive display from his team. Even though Sociedad had almost 60% of the possession they were unable to make any difference to the scoreboard . Lack of creativity from the forwards and a shaky defence means that there’s a lot of work ahead for Mr. Moyes.