Real Madrid's defeat to Atletico Madrid 3-1 really made us realize that no matter how good ball possession is, if you don't have a sharp striker, then it's really in vain. Not only will they not be able to face other big teams later in the UCL, Even against Atletico Madrid they couldn't penetrate Atletico's back line strongly.
I said a while ago that Madrid would gradually lose ground with a formation like this. There was no striker with the ambition to score goals, making Atletico Madrid enjoy a very entertaining match. Like it or not, this defeat made Barcelona lead at the top of the standings, followed by Girona who unexpectedly could be consistent and be in second place.
In my opinion, if Barcelona occupied the top of the standings, it would be difficult for any club to catch up. This season Madrid will experience many problems, whether they realize it or not, the fact that if there are no senior players like Kross, the fans worries will become even more real.
I just feel that yesterday's game was a momentary lapse in judgement on the part of Real Madrid. They underestimated Atletico Madrid and it proved costly cause they not only lost three points, they were dropped from top spot to occupy third place which would leave them hoping that either Barcelona or Girona will slip or lose points. And I don't see that happening as we saw impressive performance from Girona and Barcelona during the weekend.
Real Madrid are getting too comfortable with Carlo's 4-4-2 diamond formation and this is sorely getting old and this was what Atletico Madrid must have observed and taken advantage of because not long into the second half, Morata fired in a shot to solidify their lead.
More impact will be felt by any opposing teams if they revert back to their 4-3-3 formation with Vini, Rodrygo and Joselu manning the frontline. Good job to Diego Simeone and his boys. It was a well deserved victory especially as it is Madrid derby.