Atlético de Madrid was able to take away several positives in the last match against Celta de Vigo, although they didn't achieve the goal of winning. The Colchoneros had to perform a survival exercise rarely seen after enduring for more than 90 minutes with one player less. This situation forced Simeone to change his initial game plan and carefully measure all substitutions to try to secure the three points.
The author of the equalizing goal would be Alexander Sorloth, who has become a true specialist in saving the day coming off the bench. Many fans think the Norwegian should have entered the field earlier, as he was a real threat. In fact, despite many matches still ahead, he has already managed to break a very unique record in this 21st century.
Alexander Sorloth Dresses as a Hero
One of the key factors in Atlético de Madrid's good form in recent months has been the importance of the Norwegian international coming off the bench. Victories like those against Leganés, Deportivo Alavés, Getafe, or Barça came thanks to the goals of the former Villarreal player, almost always as a substitute. He remains the top scorer for the Colchoneros in LaLiga, something surprising given his usual role as a game-changer.
Moreover, six of those goals have come when he has had to come on in the second half, being the best in this century in that regard. He has surpassed another specialist like Ángel Correa, who scored five in the 2015-16 season, and Álvaro Morata, with four goals last season. Behind him, Ángel Correa repeats in the 2022-23 campaign, and the last Fernando Torres in the 2002-03 season, where he would score three goals coming on as a substitute.
Simeone Must Make a Decision
Moreover, one of the main ones affected, albeit indirectly, after Alexander Sorloth's goal is Antoine Griezmann, who seems to be in the eye of the storm. Many fans thought he should have been the substitution after Pablo Barrios's expulsion, leaving Samuel Lino on the field. It seems the Frenchman is struggling to find consistency in recent matches, something that also happened last season at the crucial moment.
The reality is that the Norwegian striker is demanding a starting position, as he remains one of the most impactful players at Simeone's disposal. The next commitment for the Rojiblancos will be against Valencia at Mestalla, a stadium where they were heavily defeated in their last visit. It won't be easy, although they will have the whole week to prepare for that clash as they don't have to face any European competition matches.