Atletico Madrid's La Liga title aspirations suffered a significant blow after they could only manage a 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena on Sunday, January 4, 2026. The result left Diego Simeone's side on 38 points, level with third-placed Villarreal but having played two more matches. They now trail leaders Barcelona by 11 points, making the championship race increasingly challenging midway through the 2025-26 season. Norwegian striker Alexander Sorloth headed Atletico ahead early in the second half from Giuliano Simeone's cross. However, Goncalo Guedes equalized just five minutes later, tapping in after Takefusa Kubo's low drive across goal.

Real Sociedad, under new American coach Pellegrino Matarazzo in his debut match, started strongly and created several chances in the first half. Mikel Oyarzabal fired narrowly wide from a distance, while Jan Oblak was forced to tip away Brais Mendez's powerful drive. Atletico threatened sporadically but struggled to maintain control, having won just two of their last five league games. Conor Gallagher missed a golden opportunity to double the lead, firing wide when through on goal. Oblak later made a crucial low save to deny Kubo, while Alex Remiro thwarted Antoine Griezmann from a tight angle.

The draw keeps Real Sociedad in 15th place but provides a positive start for Matarazzo, who took over recently amid the team's struggles near the relegation zone. Carlos Soler nearly won it for the hosts in stoppage time, bending a shot just wide of the far post. Atletico's away form continues to be a concern, as they failed to capitalize on their recent winning streak. Barcelona remains top, with Real Madrid and Villarreal close behind in the tightly contested standings. The result highlights Atletico's inconsistency against mid-table sides.

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Simeone's men now face a crucial Madrid derby against Real Madrid next, where they must regroup quickly to stay in the top-four race. Villarreal's fewer games played keep the pressure on, while Barcelona extends their lead. Real Sociedad's point helps steady the ship under new management. The match showcased end-to-end action but lacked clinical finishing from both sides. La Liga's title race remains open, but Atletico's slip has dented their momentum significantly.

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