Atletico Held Again as Winless Start Continues with Alaves Draw

By Babatunji Wusu

• Atletico draw 1-1 with Alaves, remain winless in La Liga

• Giuliano Simeone scores opener, Carlos Vicente equalizes from penalty spot

• Griezmann and Sorloth denied late as Alaves hold firm

• Pressure builds after Atletico’s third straight setback

Atletico Madrid’s poor start to the La Liga season continued on Saturday as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Alaves, leaving Diego Simeone’s side without a win in its opening three matches.

Giuliano Simeone, son of the coach, struck early with a determined finish at the near post after battling through defenders in the box. But Atletico’s lead evaporated once again when Alexander Sorloth fouled Nahuel Tenaglia inside the area and Carlos Vicente calmly converted the penalty.

Atletico pushed hard for a winner in the second half, with Antonio Sivera denying Sorloth and Antoine Griezmann striking the post, but the Rojiblancos could not find a breakthrough.

Goalkeeper Jan Oblak voiced the team’s frustration after the match: “We’re angry and it leaves a bad taste in the mouth. We need more points and it’s our fault.”

The draw leaves Atletico still searching for rhythm after a summer overhaul, with results reflecting a side yet to click under Simeone.

Elsewhere in La Liga, Real Madrid were set to host Mallorca later on Saturday, while reigning champions Barcelona visit Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.