The fight to save the season after the defeat in the Champions League and the importance of the next challenge in Valencia

Atlético de Madrid is going through one of the most complicated stages of its 2026 season. The recent defeat against Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League has left the team disappointed and without options to advance in the continental competition. Now, the priority is the League, where every point counts in the fight for privileged positions.

The match in Valencia against Levante is presented as a litmus test for the red and whites, who need a victory to reinforce their aspirations and regain confidence after losing their compass in Europe. The visit to the Ciutat de València, a traditionally complicated fiefdom for Atlético, will come at a time when Simeone's team must show character and determination. With qualification for the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey on the horizon, the pressure increases and the demands do not let up.

Current context and analysis of Atlético's situation in La Liga

With only 8 points difference with respect to the leader, Barcelona, and 7 with respect to Madrid, the Colchonera squad is forced to add three at a time to avoid falling further behind in the race for the title. The defeat in Europe left a bitter taste, but Simeone insists on maintaining serenity and focusing on the coming days.

The team, still hampered by injuries and with some players in poor shape, will seek to rediscover itself in a scenario where it has achieved results that are not always favorable. Victory in Valencia would be a balm to face the decisive phase of the season with confidence.

The duel in Valencia: expectation and probable alignments

Levante, with morale rising after two consecutive victories led by Luis Castro, wants to take advantage of its home status to score points and move away from the relegation zone. The Valencian team, which is fighting tooth and nail for permanence, will face Atlético with the intention of stopping its negative streak.

There will be no big surprises in Atlético's eleven regarding the European duel. Simeone is still working with uncertainty over the availability of some key players. Giuliano continues to recover from a fever, and Griezmann is still not in full condition after his muscle injury, although he could be in the eleven for the match against Sevilla.

Possible eleven for Atlético	Possible eleven of Levante
Oblak – Savage, Ruggeri, Le Normand – Varela, Almada – Kondogbia, De Paul – Correa, Sorloth, Morata	Postigo – Róber, Vezo – Pepelu, Bardhi – Malsa, Campaña – Morales, Melero – J. Morales, José Luis Morales

Simeone's lineup decisions will be crucial. The possible entry of Ruggeri or Le Normand in defense, or that of Almada in the midfield, could make the difference in a match where consistency will be essential.

Keys for Atlético: recover their best players and improve the offensive line

Alexander Sorloth has shown an outstanding performance so far this year, scoring five goals in seven games and being a reference in attack. Your presence is vital in these critical moments.

On the other hand, Julián and Baena have not yet reached their best level, which forces Simeone to look for solutions to enhance the attack and balance the team. Griezmann's recovery and the incorporation of players like Ruggeri or Le Normand will be decisive in the Argentine coach's strategies.

The importance of the next few days and the challenges in the Copa del Rey

After the confrontation in La Liga, Atlético focuses on the cup tie against Betis in La Cartuja, a high-tension match that will define its place in the semifinals. Achieving a victory in Valencia would be a morale and sporting boost to face Thursday's duel with confidence.

With the pressure of keeping their options alive in the different competitions, the Madrid team needs a collective effort that reflects the attitude of fight and sacrifice that has always characterized Simeone and his players.

Summary of statistics and performance of Atlético in 2026

Alexander Sorloth goals in 2026: 5 in 7 games
Games played in La Liga: 20
Victories in La Liga: 10
Defeats in La Liga: 6
Goals scored in La Liga: 29
Goals received in La Liga: 22

The team maintains an average of 1.45 goals per game, showing a certain defensive fragility but also the ability to respond and score in key moments.

Expectations and orders from coach Simeone for Valencia

Simeone seeks his players to show aggression and concentration, maintaining defensive solidity and promoting quick transitions to attack. The key will be to stay calm and avoid mistakes that could be costly in such a competitive scenario.

The coach will have to decide whether to introduce changes to the lineup compared to Europe, seeking greater consistency and physical freshness to face the Valencian challenge.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is Atlético's current situation in La Liga? The team occupies an average position, eight points behind the leader Barcelona, and needs to add to avoid losing title options.
What injuries do Atlético have and how would they affect the game? Giuliano and Griezmann are recovering, which limits alternatives in attack and midfield. The availability of Ruggeri and Le Normand will also influence the defense.
How has Alexander Sorloth performed in 2026? He has been one of the standout players, scoring five goals and creating opportunities in several key games.
What important games remain on Atlético's calendar? The cup match against Betis in La Cartuja and the decisive clashes in La Liga against direct rivals for the title.
What challenges do you face to stay in the Champions League? Elimination in the group stage makes European aspirations difficult, making La Liga more relevant.
How do recent losses impact team morale? They are an emotional blow, but Simeone insists on recovery and the competitive nature to continue fighting.
What options does Simeone have in the lineup for Valencia? They could maintain the European eleven or introduce defensive or midfield variants to reinforce the attack.
What role will Levante play in the match? With the motivation to save themselves and the support of their fans, the Valencian team will seek to take advantage of their home field to score important points.
What impact can the results have on Atlético's standings for the remainder of the season? They will be decisive in keeping alive the dream of fighting for the League and facing the final phase of all competitions with options.

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