Almada scored in the 69th minute to give Atletico Madrid the lead, breaking the deadlock in a tightly contested match. The goal came after sustained pressure from Diego Simeone’s side, who had dominated possession throughout the encounter.
The Argentine midfielder’s finish capped a patient buildup as Atletico searched for a breakthrough against an organized Osasuna defense. The strike marked a pivotal moment in a match where clear-cut chances had been limited for both sides.
Also read: La Liga 2025/26 Live Streaming: How to watch Spanish league in US – Start Time, Dates and more
Atletico Madrid dominates possession but struggles to convert chances
Atletico Madrid controlled 65.1% of possession compared to Osasuna’s 34.4%, reflecting their territorial advantage throughout the match. The hosts attempted 17 shots with nine on target, demonstrating their attacking intent despite the single-goal margin.
Atletico Madrid registered five shots on target in the first half compared to just one from Osasuna, establishing early dominance. The statistics highlighted Atletico’s control, though converting that dominance into goals proved challenging against a compact Osasuna setup.
The match produced two corner kicks for Atletico in the opening period compared to one for the visitors. Yellow cards were issued to one player from each side, keeping the contest competitive but disciplined.
Jan Oblak produces critical saves to preserve clean sheet
Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera made eight saves, repeatedly denying Atletico’s attacking players throughout the 90 minutes. The veteran keeper’s performance kept Osasuna in contention despite their limited possession.Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak has kept nine clean sheets in 13 games against Osasuna, continuing his impressive record against the Pamplona-based club. Oblak made one crucial save to maintain the shutout, though he faced minimal pressure from the visiting attack.
Tactical adjustments and team selection impact match dynamics
Atletico Madrid were missing Clément Lenglet through suspension, while Robin Le Normand suffered an injury on international duty. The defensive absences forced Diego Simeone to adjust his backline configuration.
Atletico deployed a 3-4-1 formation with Jan Oblak in goal, Nicolás González, David Hancko, José María Giménez, and Robin Le Normand in defense. Marcos Llorente, Álex Baena, Koke, and Pablo Barrios formed the midfield, while Julián Álvarez and Antoine Griezmann led the attack before tactical substitutions.
Osasuna were set to be without Aimar Oroz for the fixture, limiting their creative options in midfield. The absence impacted their ability to transition from defense to attack effectively.
Atletico’s home form continues while Osasuna struggles on the road
Atletico Madrid have won eight of their last nine home matches, scoring exactly five in both of the last two home games. The fortress-like atmosphere at Riyadh Air Metropolitano has been crucial to their season.
Atletico Madrid have been impressive at home in this La Liga campaign, dropping points only once in a draw with Celta. The victory maintained their strong home record and moved them closer to the top four positions.
Osasuna have failed to earn a single point in their four away matches this season, continuing their struggles away from home. The defeat extended their winless streak on the road and highlighted the contrast between their home and away performances.
Osasuna are winless in their last six away games against Madrid clubs in La Liga, demonstrating their difficulty competing in the capital city. The pattern continued despite their competitive first-half display.
Match statistics reveal Atletico’s dominance in key areas
Atletico Madrid registered 17 shot attempts compared to Osasuna’s seven, reflecting their offensive superiority. The hosts also won four corner kicks to Osasuna’s single corner, demonstrating their territorial control.
Both teams received one yellow card each, indicating a relatively clean contest without major disciplinary issues. Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea maintained control throughout the encounter.
None of the last 19 head-to-head meetings between these teams have ended in a draw, suggesting decisive outcomes characterize this fixture. The pattern held as Atletico secured all three points.
Implications for La Liga standings and season objectives
Atletico Madrid currently rank fifth in La Liga with 13 points, while Osasuna hold 12th position with 10 points. The victory moved Atletico within striking distance of the top four, crucial for Champions League qualification.
After suffering a defeat to Espanyol in the opening round of La Liga, the Colchoneros have remained unbeaten in the national championship. The unbeaten run now extends to multiple matches as they build momentum.
Atletico’s 13 points from eight league games represents their worst haul at this stage of a La Liga campaign since 2011/12, indicating room for improvement despite the positive recent results. The team continues working to find consistency under Diego Simeone’s management.