Atletico Madrid defeated Osasuna 2-0 on Thursday thanks to goals from Antoine Griezmann and Rodrigo Riquelme in a tense LaLiga match that saw both teams reduced to 10 men.
With a game in hand, Atletico climbed up to fifth position in LaLiga with 13 points, six points behind surprise leaders Girona.
Osasuna started strongly and almost scored with a strike from the edge of the box by Lucas Torró that flew just wide in front of a sold-out El Sadar Stadium.
Atletico responded with Griezmann, who was quick to react to a rebound after Osasuna keeper Aitor Fernández failed to hold on to Samuel Lino’s cross. Griezmann fired a close-range shot into the goal.
Osasuna maintained their lead and nearly scored in the 37th minute when left winger Johan Mojica dribbled past two defenders before firing a bullet effort off the near post.
The hosts produced several chances, with Atletico goalie Jan Oblak making a great save in the 66th minute to deny Torro a point-blank effort.
Tensions erupted after Osasuna manager Jagoba Arrasate was issued a red card for disagreeing with the referee after David Garcia’s goal in the 75th minute was ruled out.
Atletico’s goal came as a result of a swift counterattack orchestrated by fullback Samuel Lino.
The Brazilian made an excellent ball to replacement Riquelme, who beat onrushing keeper Fernandez and tapped into an empty net.
Following a clash, Atletico Madrid’s lvaro Morata and Osasuna’s Chimy Vila were both sent off four minutes later.
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