Atletico's title hopes take another hit in draw at Alaves, Rayo win

Atletico Madrid's fading hopes of winning the Spanish League title suffered a potentially grievous blow on Saturday as relegation-threatened Alaves at the Mendizorrotza Stadium held them to a goalless draw.

- 

Atletico, who last won La Liga in 2021, dominated possession but lacked the invention and urgency to pierce an organised Alaves rearguard.

Diego Simeone's side remained third in the standings with 67 points, nine behind leaders Barcelona who travel to Real Valladolid.

The first half was a cagey affair without a single shot on target, the most notable moment coming when Atletico forward Julian Alvarez was dismissed for planting a high boot on Facundo Garces.

However, TV replays showed the challenge was not as bad as it initially appeared and the red card was changed to a yellow after VAR asked the referee to consult the pitchside monitor.