Atletico Madrid Surges Past Barcelona with a Commanding 2-1 Win Over Alaves in La Liga

Atletico Madrid claimed a 2-1 triumph against Alaves on Sunday, propelling them beyond reigning champions Barcelona to seize third place in La Liga. Their ascent followed Real Madrid's 2-1 victory over Barcelona in El Clasico the previous day. Diego Simeone's squad capitalized on this opportunity, edging a point ahead of Xavi Hernandez's Barca but remaining three points adrift from league leaders Real and second-place Girona.

Alvaro Morata orchestrated a goal and provided an assist as Atletico comfortably defeated the 17th-placed Alaves at the Metropolitano Stadium. Morata facilitated Rodrigo Riquelme's opener 26 minutes into the game before netting a second goal right before halftime, firmly placing Atletico in command.

Despite Ander Guevara's late goal for Alaves, it served only as a consolation. The victory now marks Atletico's 14th consecutive win in La Liga home matches, equalling a club record established in 2013.

Riquelme acknowledged, "The record is not coincidental. Playing at home with our supporters, we feel a stronger sense of comfort; they bolster our confidence. We're on the right trajectory, taking each game as it comes."

Atletico Madrid's impressive display against Alaves has not only bolstered their league standing but also set a record reflective of their dominance on home turf.