Álvarez Hat-Trick Secures Dramatic 3–2 Win for Atlético Over Rayo
A sensational hat-trick by Julián Álvarez lifted Atlético Madrid to a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Rayo Vallecano at the Metropolitano, giving the home side just their second La Liga win of the season.
The contest was packed with drama. Rayo looked to be in control late, with Álvaro García netting in the 77th minute to put them ahead on a swift counterattack.
Early in stoppage time of the first half, Pep Chavarría had stunned the crowd with a stunning 35-yard strike, leveling the score.
But Atlético refused to buckle. Álvarez struck first from a cross by Marcos Llorente, giving his side the lead.
Then, with time running out, the former Manchester City forward equalised again before completing his hat-trick with a fierce left-footed finish into the top corner.
The match was not without controversy. Captain Koke nearly saw red after appearing to grab opposition keeper Augusto Batalla by the throat, but he escaped dismissal.
With this win, Atlético momentarily quiet criticism and move to 9 points from six matches in La Liga, while Rayo fall further behind in the standings.