Atletico Madrid had to settle for a fifth draw in six competitive matches as they were held 1-1 by Villarreal at the Wanda Metropoliatno on Saturday.
Carlos Bacca crashed in an 81st minute header to cancel out Angel Correa’s opener as Diego Simeone’s endured another frustrating day.
Held to a 1-1 draw at third-tier Elche in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, the Rojiblancos were made to wait for the opener as Villarreal set about proving their pedigree as contenders for a Champions League spot.
Unsurprisingly it was a flash of brilliance from Antoine Griezmann that gave the home side the lead in the 61st minute as his exquisite vision and touch enabled Correa to tuck home at the near post.
But, having spurned chances to go ahead in the first half, Villarreal continued to create opportunities and found late reward through Bacca.
The draw prevented fourth-placed Atleti from climbing above rivals Real Madrid and instead stretched Javi Calleja’s unbeaten LaLiga start to life as Villarreal boss to four matches.
UCJ, UNILORIN.