Julian Alvarez steers Atletico Madrid to the La Liga summit with a brilliant late goal

Julian Alvarez guided Atletico to a crucial win in the La Liga title race. (Image credits - FMT, License Details)

Atletico Madrid steered to the top of the La Liga table on Sunday following their nail-biting 1-0 win against Athletic Bilbao.

Diego Simeone’s side has been one of the best sides in Spain this season, with their offensive brilliance driving them forward this season.

Facing a tough Bilbao side, the Los Colchoneros managed to accumulate an xG of 2.25, though they managed to score only one. 

The stats show how much they've improved offensively this season.

Whenever we talk about Atletico, we talk about the defensive style of football and hardcore pragmatism. However, this season, Simeone has adapted to the modern style of football and has resorted to quick counter attacking tactics.

Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez have formed a formidable duo up front for Atleti, along with the new signing Alexander Sørloth being a menace coming off the bench.

The Roji Blancos are now at the top of the La Liga points table with 56 points, with FC Barcelona coming behind in second place with 54 points and a game in hand.

Atletico Madrid will compete against Barcelona for the elusive treble

FC Barcelona have already won the Spanish Super Cup, beating Real Madrid 5-2 in the final and will have their eyes set on another potential treble, being the only club in Spain to win the three major trophies in a single season, not once but twice. 

However, Atletico Madrid will have the same aspirations as their rivals. 

The Roji Blancos will face the Catalan giants in the second leg of Copa del Rey, aiming to spoil the party for Hansi Flick and his men.

Atletico have been the bogey team for Hansi Flick this season and will aim to carry this momentum into the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final.

Diego Simeone's side will be aiming to create history by becoming the second club in Spain to achieve this historic feat.