p>Atletico Madrid were left frustrated at the Metropolitano Stadium after being held to a 1-1 draw by newly-promoted Elche in the second round of the La Liga season.

Atlético Strike First But Fail to Capitalise

It took just eight minutes for Alexander Sørloth to open the scoring for the hosts, finishing calmly after a precise through-ball from David Hancko. The early goal sparked confidence in the Rojiblancos, and the attacking duo of Thiago Almada and Julián Álvarez created several dangerous chances with their sharp movement and high-tempo play.

However, Sørloth squandered a golden opportunity to double the lead, firing straight at goalkeeper Matías Dituro in a one-on-one situation. Moments later, Atletico paid the price.

Elche Punish Wastefulness

Following the missed chance, Elche launched a quick counter-attack. Álvaro Rodríguez delivered a pinpoint assist to Rafa Mir, who made no mistake with a clinical finish past a helpless Jan Oblak.

Despite dominating possession and piling on the pressure for much of the second half, Diego Simeone’s side failed to find a breakthrough — with Elche defending bravely and earning a deserved point in Madrid.

2025-26, Spain - La Liga

Atletico Madrid - Elche 1:1 (1:1)
Goals: Sørloth, 8 (1:0); Rafa Mir, 15 (1:1)

Atletico Madrid: Oblak; Ruggeri (Galán J., 75); Hancko; Le Normand; Cardoso Joao (Griezmann, 68); Barrios P.; Llorente M.; Almada (Gallagher C., 68); Sørloth (Raspadori, 68); Álvarez Jul.; Simeone G-o (Molina N., 75)
Bench: Musso; Lenglet; Pubill; Koke; Martín Car.

Elche: Dituro; Cobo; Affengruber; Bigas (Pétrot L., 82); Donald J. (Chust, 46); Aguado M. (Redondo, 85); Valera G.; Febas; Rafa Mir (André Silva, 67); Rodriguez Alvaro; Mendoza R. (Neto Mar., 68)
Bench: Iturbe; Diaby Bam.; Josan F.; Jeddoub Ali; Izquierdo J.; El Ghezouani
Yellow Cards: Febas 29; Mendoza R. 45; Dituro 90