Sørloth Brace Lifts Atletico to Third with Win Over Oviedo

Atletico Madrid striker Alexander Sørloth produced a clinical first-half display on Saturday, firing the club to a comfortable 2–0 victory over bottom-placed Real Oviedo, lifting Diego Simeone’s side into third place in La Liga.

The Norwegian striker struck twice inside 26 minutes to settle the contest early, extending Atletico’s impressive run to 13 league matches unbeaten since their opening-day defeat by Espanyol.

The result leaves them three points behind leaders Barcelona as they continue to build momentum after a stuttering start to the season.

Sørloth opened the scoring after 16 minutes, arriving at the far post to convert a low cross from David Hancko.

The defender then turned provider again 10 minutes later, sending in another inviting delivery which Sørloth powered home after muscling his way past David Carmo.

Atletico were rarely troubled in what became a routine afternoon for Simeone’s men, with goalkeeper Jan Oblak making a successful return from injury and enjoying a largely stress-free outing between the posts.

Oblak praised the team’s growing confidence, insisting Atletico must maintain their current standards as the season progresses.

He said the players were now performing well both defensively and in attack, adding that consistency would be key if they are to remain in contention near the top of the table.

Oviedo, who remain rooted to the bottom after a ninth defeat of the campaign, offered limited resistance. Their clearest chance fell to Haissem Hassan after some neat work by veteran midfielder Santi Cazorla, but the opportunity came to nothing.

Cazorla, now 40, urged his side not to lose belief despite another setback, insisting there was still a long way to go in the campaign.

The former Arsenal midfielder received warm applause from Atletico supporters as he was substituted, a gesture he described as deeply moving.

He later said he was grateful for the reception from the home crowd, calling it a gift he would always treasure.

With Atletico now firmly in form, Simeone’s side look increasingly settled as the race at the top of La Liga begins to intensify.