Atlético Madrid have moved level on points with La Liga leaders Barcelona after securing a hard-fought 1-0 win over Getafe at the Estadio Metropolitano. The victory marked Atlético’s 11th successive win across all competitions and extended their unbeaten head-to-head run against Getafe to 26 meetings.

The match got off to a slow start, with Atlético struggling to create clear-cut chances in the first half. Getafe’s rearguard held firm, and the hosts managed only one shot on target before the break. Samuel Lino squandered Getafe’s best opportunities, firing wide with a pair of volleys, while Atlético’s Giuliano Simeone glanced a headed chance wide of the target.

The introduction of Alexander Sørloth at halftime proved to be a game-changer for Atlético. The Norwegian striker’s presence allowed the hosts’ attack to flow more freely, and he eventually scored the winning goal in the 69th minute. Sørloth expertly headed Ángel Correa’s cross from the right into the bottom corner, ending his three-match scoring drought and giving Atlético the lead.

Getafe struggled to respond to the setback, and their lack of attacking threat ultimately proved costly. The visitors have now lost 11 of their last 18 away league matches and remain just two points above the relegation zone.

The win sets up a thrilling showdown between Atlético and Barcelona next week, with the two teams now level on points at the top of the La Liga table. Atlético’s victory also extends their unbeaten run to 11 matches across all competitions, and they will look to continue this momentum in the coming weeks.

Atlético’s manager, Diego Simeone, will be delighted with his team’s resilience and determination, which ultimately proved too much for Getafe to handle. The Argentine tactician will now turn his attention to the upcoming clash with Barcelona, which promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of La Liga’s top teams.

Meanwhile, Barcelona lost 0-1 to Leganes, which is their fourth loss in La Liga this season.