LaLiga is heating up as Atlético de Madrid aims to close the gap in the title race, currently trailing Barcelona by eight points, while Mallorca seeks to fend off relegation after a much-needed victory. The recent win for the Mallorca squad against Athletic Club, ending a series of two losses to Girona and Rayo Vallecano, has injected a fresh sense of hope into the team.
Atlético de Madrid, gearing up to host Mallorca at the Metropolitano, boasts an impressive home record, having secured 28 out of 30 possible points at home and achieved nine consecutive LaLiga victories. However, the team faces a significant challenge with the absence of French striker Antoine Griezmann, who, despite not starting in many recent matches, has been a pivotal player with key goals throughout the season.
The club is relying on two available forwards, Alexander Sorloth and Julián Alvarez, as they navigate a congested schedule that includes vital Champions League matches. Atlético’s attacking performance has raised concerns; only 25 of their last 85 shots have been on target, resulting in a mere five goals in their past five matches. The requirement for a more potent offensive is urgent, particularly from their midfielders, to support the strikers.
Amidst the challenges, coach Diego Simeone is reportedly looking to strengthen the squad in the winter transfer window with an emphasis on acquiring a midfielder and a winger. The anticipated lineup for the match against Mallorca features key players like Jan Oblak in goal and Sorloth and Alvarez leading the attack.
On the other side, Mallorca will rely heavily on Vedat Muriqi’s exceptional form, having netted 14 goals in 19 appearances this season, including one in their previous encounter with Atlético. However, for Mallorca to secure points at the Metropolitano, they must bolster their defensive performance, which has suffered due to injuries and has allowed six goals over the last three matches.
As both teams approach this critical matchup, the stakes are high: Atlético aims to maintain their title ambitions, while Mallorca fights to ensure their place in LaLiga. With both teams striving for crucial outcomes, the atmosphere at the Metropolitano is set to be intense, promising an exciting clash for fans.