Romero’s Late Header Gives Atlético Madrid a 2–1 Win at Alavés

Early chances lead to Atlético’s opener

Ángel Pérez had two early attempts for Alavés, including one after Toni Martínez found him on the right side of the penalty area. Atlético Madrid answered with chances of its own: Jonathan David tested Sivera from a Giuliano Simeone pass, and the goalkeeper saved a long shot from Marcos Llorente. Grimaldo broke the tie in the 33rd minute.

Boyé levels it before halftime

Alavés had a chance to respond after Grimaldo’s goal when Toni Martínez headed a Denis Suárez delivery, but his attempt was saved. Le Normand later fouled Martínez, giving Alavés a penalty in first-half stoppage time. Lucas Boyé converted to send the teams into halftime level at 1–1.

A red card changes the second half

Atlético brought on Julián Álvarez and Álex Baena at halftime for Lookman and Jonathan David, then replaced Barrios with Kang-In in the 57th minute. In the 61st, Ángel Pérez was sent off after a VAR review of his tackle on Álvarez. Shortly afterward, Álvarez struck the left post with a free kick.

Sivera kept the score level with saves from Llorente, Grimaldo and Baena. Atlético also brought on Sørloth for Giuliano in the 72nd minute. Alavés had a late opening of its own, but substitute Mariano Díaz missed after running onto Aitor Mañas’s through ball around the 85th minute.

Romero settles it late

Soon after Mariano’s chance, Romero headed in Baena’s cross to put Atlético back in front. The goal proved decisive as Atlético finished with a 2–1 win over Alavés.