Atletico Madrid held to frustrating Champions League draw against Galatasaray
Atletico Madrids chances of securing a top eight finish in the Champions League league phase took a hit after a 1-1 draw with Galatasaray on Wednesday during their second to last game.
While the point moves them temporarily into eighth place, the three time runners up could now face challenges in advancing directly to the round of 16.
Giuliano Simeoness opener gave his father Diego Simeoness side a strong beginning, yet Marcos Llorentes own goal ensured a share of the spoils in Istanbul.
The Spanish player redeemed himself with a crucial last minute block that prevented his side from losing.
The visiting Atletico side silenced the vibrant crowd with a goal in the fourth minute, as Giuliano headed in Matteo Ruggeris delivery.
The home team from Turkey equalised in the 20th minute after Llorente deflected Roland Salais cross past his own keeper Jan Oblak into the net, spoiling a clean sheet on Oblaks 100th Champions League outing.
Baris Yilmaz had a chance to put Galatasaray in front before the break but fired his effort well over the crossbar from a promising position.
Atletico nearly restored their lead shortly before the hour when Abdulkerim Bardakci cleared David Hanckos attempt off the goal line.
Manager Diego Simeone substituted Sorloth with experienced French forward Antoine Griezmann, opting to leave Julian Alvarez on despite his struggles scoring lately.
The Argentine has netted only once in his past 10 games, though he displayed more energy against Galatasaray than in recent outings.
In the 85th minute Griezmann curled a free kick towards the upper corner, but Galatasaray keeper Ugurcan Cakir parried it clear and then stopped Alex Baena to secure the draw for his team.
Galatasaray came close to snatching victory late on, only for Llorente to charge in and rob Eren Elmali of the ball just as he prepared to shoot.
The result proved somewhat disappointing for the Turkish side, who travel to face Manchester City in their closing league match next week with hopes of reaching the play offs.
Atletico will welcome Bodo Glimt and remain in contention for a top eight spot in the league phase.