Atlético Madrid vs Getafe Match Preview
Saturday's early game will be utmost important for the European Fight. Getafe is occupying the last Europa League's place, and the Colchoneros (reigning European champion) won't hesitate on sending the Azuones back home empty handed.
Much more than three points will be in play in Madrid's derby. Atletico's manager Quique Sanchez Flores will once again have to do without Sergio Aguero and Domingo Alvarez, and it's made clear his absence greatly undermines Colchoneros' attack. "Getafe has improved the quality of its football and their objectives, but their humble behavior guarantees an excellent performance. They offer always100% and are absolutely reliable" stated Indios' coach.
Getafe's manager Michel is getting used to doing without Ibrahim Kas and Mario Alvarez, but for this game he recovers Dani Parejo, Miguel Torres, Jaime Gavilán, Rafael López and Javier Arizmendi. Both teams know a draw won't help them get any closer to the leaders.
Six times have both teams faced each other at the Vicente Calderon in the Primera Division with two victories for each and two draws. This game will have a particular morbid pleasure for Getafe's midfielder Javier Arizmendi (former member of Atletico's youth team).
"There's a long path to walk, but a victory will be essential to lift our spirit and boost our morale. This will be our fast confrontation with a top-tier rival. We're confident we'll make a good game. The result of this game will be utterly important to measure our capabilities against a rival like Atletico) declared Arizmendi.
Who will reach the qualifying positions by Saturday's night?
Atlético Madrid vs Getafe Match Report
Quique Sanchez Flores' Colchoneros returned to victory at the Vicente Calderon. The hosts started the game without either Diego Forlan or Sergio Aguero, but Simao and Diego Costa managed to lead the offense on their own with great success.
Atletico's goalkeeper David de Gea showed the security of his gloves are fundamental for Sanchez Flores' scheme. Manu del Moral and Adrian Colunga were unstoppable during the first minutes but de Gea deflected every one of his shots.
As the minutes went by the hosts became more dangerous, and it was clear the first goal was just a matter of time. Simao's free kick hit the post and Jordi Codina' back,sending the ball straight into the net. It was the 37th minute and the first half was giving the hosts the three points.
Michel introduced some modifications for the second half but Getafe was unable to build a clear project. Diego Forlan replaced Fran Merida at the 65th minute, boosting Atletico's offense. Seven minutes later Atletico sealed a 2-0 victory with an electric counter attack lead by Juan Valera.
The European reigning champion is slowly awakening, will they jump back on the title chase before it's too late?
