La Liga Round 7 Preview: Can Atletico Madrid Rely on Derby Luck? Osasuna Stays Calm

The final match of La Liga’s seventh round will see Osasuna facing Atletico Madrid. Osasuna managed a 0-0 draw with Sevilla in their last outing and currently sit three points above the relegation zone. Although their points tally is half of what it was at this stage last season, their relegation worries are not too severe. Considering their performances in recent seasons, a resurgence for Osasuna seems a matter of time. Atletico Madrid, despite having the same points total as last season and not yet breaking into the Champions League spots, are riding high on morale after their victory in the Madrid derby.

In the Madrid derby, both Atletico and Real Madrid appeared to approach the game with a cautious tempo, possibly due to having played in the Champions League beforehand. However, a superb cross in the fourth minute saw Atletico take the lead, setting a brisk pace for the rest of the match. Atletico’s left-back Renan Lodi made a stunning run down the left flank before delivering a lightning-fast cross. Despite Real Madrid having four defenders in the box compared to Atletico’s lone forward, Alvaro Morata, it was Morata who seized the opportunity with a header, showcasing his aerial prowess. David Alaba, tasked with marking Morata, couldn’t even find the right moment to jump.

Fifteen minutes later, Atletico struck again. Seeing his teammate Lodi provide an assist from the left, midfielder Saul Niguez decided to get in on the action. From his position on the left of central midfield, Saul sent a precise left-footed cross to the waiting Antoine Griezmann. The cross wasn’t particularly fast, but Griezmann, situated between Eduardo Camavinga and Fran Garcia, capitalized on their hesitation, as both defenders seemed to expect the other to make a move. This allowed Griezmann to easily head the ball into the net. While unmarked, the power and precision with which he connected with the slow cross were commendable.

Real Madrid managed to pull one back with a goal that also stemmed from a cross. A swift move down the right saw a cross whipped into the box. Although Atletico’s defenders scrambled back and successfully cleared the initial danger, the second wave of Real Madrid’s attack found Toni Kroos in space. The German midfielder took a touch to control the ball before unleashing a powerful shot past the Atletico defenders into the net.

In the second half, Atletico delivered another swift strike. Less than a minute in, Saul again sent a high, looping cross from near the left corner. Alaba inexplicably drifted away from his marking duties on Morata, leaving the striker unchallenged to score with another close-range header. Real Madrid’s defensive lapses, aside from the first goal, provided minimal resistance to Atletico’s attackers. Atletico’s luck with crosses highlighted Real Madrid’s defensive frailties rather than any exceptional skill on Atletico’s part.

Osasuna has been a consistent mid-table team since their return to La Liga over four seasons ago, even earning a spot in the UEFA Europa Conference League qualifiers last season. However, they are well aware of their limitations. They understand that while they can perform well enough to stay mid-table, a bad run could see them embroiled in a relegation battle. This pragmatic approach perhaps explains why they did not make it to the main draw of the Conference League.

Osasuna’s start to this season has been somewhat unclear. While their performance compared to last season is lacking, it cannot be said that they are underperforming significantly. For smaller teams, the key is often taking it one game at a time. In their recent match against Sevilla, Osasuna displayed some resolve, managing a 0-0 draw. Despite the scoreline, both teams were fully committed to securing a win, but a lack of clinical finishing from the forwards resulted in a goalless stalemate.

Since their promotion, Osasuna has faced Atletico Madrid eight times and lost on each occasion. Even a narrow defeat would seem like an achievement for them. However, Atletico’s recent derby win does not mask their inconsistencies. Despite their triumph over Real Madrid, Atletico’s performances have not been entirely stable, suggesting that Osasuna could spring a surprise in this match.

This upcoming clash between Osasuna and Atletico Madrid is set against the backdrop of contrasting fortunes and differing expectations. While Atletico will be buoyed by their recent derby success, Osasuna’s calm and steady approach could see them exploit any potential complacency or fatigue in the Atletico ranks. Atletico’s inconsistency post-derby raises questions about their ability to maintain momentum. Their high morale from defeating Real Madrid must be tempered with the realization that every match presents a different challenge, and complacency could be their undoing.

Osasuna’s current position may not reflect their potential. A team that has consistently held its own in La Liga can certainly pose problems for a team like Atletico, especially if they can capitalize on any lapses in concentration or overconfidence from their opponents. For Atletico, maintaining their tactical discipline and avoiding defensive errors will be crucial.

One thing is certain: the clash will be a test of resilience and tactical acumen for both teams. Osasuna’s pragmatic approach and Atletico’s need to prove their derby victory was no fluke set the stage for an intriguing encounter. The outcome could hinge on which team manages to impose its will and adapt to the unfolding dynamics of the game. A win for Osasuna would not only defy expectations but also provide a significant boost to their campaign, demonstrating that even the most formidable opponents are not invincible.