Atlético de Madrid achieved a key victory against Athletic Club with a 1-0 score, positioning themselves as provisional leaders of LaLiga, awaiting FC Barcelona's performance. A hard-fought, challenging, and above all, exciting triumph for the rojiblancos in this decisive stretch of the season. After the match, Kiko Narváez analyzed in his column for AS the significance of this result and highlighted the essential role of Julián Alvarez, the main protagonist of the night.
Julián Álvarez, the 'Joker' of Atlético de Madrid
For Kiko Narváez, the key to the rojiblanco's triumph was the figure of Julián Alvarez. The Argentine forward, newly arrived in the winter market, once again demonstrated why Atlético de Madrid made a strong bet on him.
His goal, after an exceptional pass from Marcos Llorente, was a display of quality and composure. "In an extraordinary pass from a magnificent Llorente, what a kit Simeone has, five players in one (he also performs as a pivot), left 'La Araña' alone. After a control in stride, he downshifted to score smoothly without his boot trembling," wrote Narváez in his analysis.
The former Atlético forward highlighted the importance of having a player like Julián Alvarez at this crucial moment of the season. He described him as "the antidote to so much stress," referring to the enormous physical and mental demands that Diego Simeone's team is enduring.
An Atlético de Madrid That Fights Until the End
Beyond the goal, the match was a true tactical battle. After taking the lead, Atlético opted for a retreat with a 1-5-4-1, resisting Athletic Club's attempts, which sought the equalizer with lateral crosses and offensive changes.
Narváez pointed out that the departure of Álex Berenguer made the defensive task easier for Atlético, as the winger was creating danger on the left flank. Nevertheless, he highlighted the performance of Dani Vivian, Athletic's center-back, whom he considers a very complete footballer.
LaLiga Heats Up
With this victory, Atlético de Madrid puts pressure on FC Barcelona, which must win their next match if they want to regain the lead. For Kiko Narváez, Simeone's team has found in Julián Álvarez the spark needed to face this final stretch of the season with ambition.
"Things are getting serious," summarizes the former rojiblanco footballer, aware that Atlético de Madrid is in the midst of a title fight. The colchonera fans are dreaming big again, and with players like Julián Álvarez leading the attack, anything is possible.