Atletico Madrid’s diminishing chances of clinching the LaLiga title took another hit on Saturday after they were forced to a goalless stalemate by struggling Alaves at the Mendizorrotza Stadium.
The draw left Atletico sitting in third place with 67 points, still trailing league leaders Barcelona by nine.
Barcelona were set to face Real Valladolid later in the day. Meanwhile, the result lifted Alaves to 16th position, now three points above the relegation zone.
The opening 45 minutes were uneventful, with neither side registering a shot on target.
The most dramatic moment occurred when Atletico’s Julian Alvarez received a red card for a dangerous high challenge on Facundo Garces.
However, the decision was later reversed following a review at the pitchside monitor.
Looking to inject some urgency into the match, Diego Simeone introduced five substitutes in the second half.
The changes brought more intensity and attacking intent, but despite a flurry of late opportunities, Atletico couldn’t break the deadlock.
