Atletico Continue Barca Chase

Atletico Madrid have continued their chase for the La Liga title this season even as Barcelona continue to lead. Diego Simeone’s men defeated Athletic Bilbao 2-0 to keep up the pressure on the Nou Camp dwellers.

Frenchman Kevin Gameiero came off the bench to score one goal and create another on Sunday. Barca had won Eibar 2-0 on Saturday to extend their lead to ten points but Atletico Madrid have cut it again to seven points. The back to back draws of the Catalan giants raised the pressure against them for the La Liga when it seemed almost certain weeks back. Further disappointing results or shock losses in their unbeaten campaign so far can quickly change things.

Athletic Bilbao frustrated their hosts at the meeting at the Wanda Metropolitano and it seemed as if it would end in a barren draw. Gameiro was introduced and he helped the team earn their fifth straight win in all competitions. The World Cup hopeful for the French national team sent his effort to the bottom corner after a through ball from compatriot Antoine Griezmann.

Gameiro then set up former Chelsea star Diego Costa for the second. Costa marked his return from injury with the goal by beating goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga at the near post. Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak had his 16th clean sheet in the league – giving him the best record in the top five leagues in Europe.

For Bilbao, their woes continue as they are yet to win in six games now. They also failed to create a single chance on target in the game. Barcelona would need to keep their head right in the fight as their involvements in different competitions can force a slip up which Atletico would be so eager to take advantage of.