Sun Nov 24 00:13:46 UTC 2024: ## Simeone’s 700th Game a Thriller: Atlético Madrid Edges Alaves in Late Victory
**Madrid, Spain** – Diego Simeone celebrated his 700th game as Atlético Madrid manager with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves at the Metropolitano Stadium on Saturday. The hard-fought win saw Atlético overcome an early deficit and snatch the three points in the dying moments.
Alaves took the lead in the seventh minute when Jon Guridi converted a penalty after a handball by Javi Galan. Despite Atlético dominating possession, Alaves’ resolute defense and the impressive performance of goalkeeper Antonio Sivera kept the home side at bay throughout much of the match. The Metropolitano crowd’s initial silence following the early goal turned to anxious frustration as Atlético struggled to break through.
The game turned on its head in the final stages. Antoine Griezmann equalized from the penalty spot in the 76th minute after a handball in the Alaves box. Then, in the 86th minute, substitute Alexander Sørloth smashed home a powerful shot, securing a vital win for Atlético in Simeone’s milestone match. Sørloth’s goal was his fifth of the season.
Simeone’s son, Giuliano, who was a second-half substitute, played a pivotal role in the team’s resurgence, earning the man-of-the-match award for his energetic performance.
The victory provisionally lifts Atlético to second place in LaLiga, four points behind leaders Barcelona (who have two games in hand). Alaves remains in 16th position. Following the match, Giuliano Simeone praised his father’s achievement and the team’s hard-fought victory. Alaves defender Nahuel Tenaglia acknowledged his team’s strong first-half performance but expressed disappointment at the late conceded goals.
First Piper 