Atletico Madrid ground out a narrow 1-0 victory over Deportivo Alavés at the Metropolitano Stadium in Spanish La Liga on January 18, 2026. A single goal, scored in the first half, proved sufficient for Diego Simeone's side to claim all three points in a match defined by defensive discipline. Atletico took the lead midway through the first period, converting from a set-piece situation that highlighted their aerial threat. The remainder of the match saw Atletico adopt a typically compact shape, absorbing pressure from Alavés and looking to hit on the counter. The visitors created a few half-chances but failed to truly test the Atletico goalkeeper, as the home side secured a crucial win to maintain their position near the top of the league table.