At one point Atletico Madrid were flying but then came the sufferings –Real Madrid, Barcelona, and even Sevilla threatened to move Atleti from their top spot, but still, they are at the top of the La Liga table as the race for the title gets fascinating each week.
In another important affair at the Wanada Metropolitano, Atleti made their intentions clear from the start, with a high press that so nearly saw them take the lead after just five minutes, but Luis Suarez's acrobatic attempt while unmarked sailed over the bar.
It was then Marcos Llorente's turn to waste another opportunity as he opted to go solo rather than square the ball to Suarez, with a left-footed attempt that was calmly gathered by Alex Remiro.
Atleti looked determined and their persistence paid off on 15 minutes, however, as Llorente this time did opt to pass and Carrasco, the grateful recipient, swiveled and then prodded the ball beneath Remiro for the opener.
Their lead was doubled when Suarez drove at the opposition defence before slipping the ball through to Correa who expertly finished beyond the advancing goalkeeper.
Atleti dominated the first half, although they had Jan Oblak to thank for two smart saves to deny Alexander Isak.
One of Los Rojiblancos' failings this season has been in taking their foot off the gas when leading, but there was no sign of that on Wednesday night.
After the break, Diego Simeone's men were frantic and aggressive.
The high press forced Real Sociedad into surrendering possession at the back, but Suarez couldn't get the ball out of his feet and his scuffed effort failed to trouble Remiro.
As comfortable as Atleti were, the more they missed chances, the more La Real edged forward with confidence.
Oblak was called upon again, just after the hour mark, to deny Portu from close range, before the same player weaved his way into the box moments later and struck the post.
Eventually, Real Sociedad found their way back into the game from a corner, as Igor Zubeldia was on hand to bundle home from six yards and set up a nervy last ten minutes for Simeone and co.
From looking comfortable all night, suddenly Atleti were camped inside their own box while La Real pushed men forward. Still, the hosts stood firm for the closing stages and held on for a priceless three points.
The win moves them four points ahead of Barcelona with two games left each, and five ahead of Real Madrid who have three matches remaining.
Los Blancos face Granada on Thursday evening, before a trip to Athletic Club on Sunday, followed by a home clash with Villarreal a week later.
Should Atletico slip up and the points end up being level, Real Madrid would win LaLiga Santander due to their superior head-to-head record.
Note: This article has been posted at Cricketsoccer as CSdesk on 13/05/2021 Atletico Madrid remain at the top
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
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