EIBAR, SPAIN — Survival points and European ambitions collided at Ipurua as Eibar desperately sought crucial Liga F points while Atlético Madrid aimed to maintain their push for continental qualification. The hosts' fighting spirit ultimately earned them a precious 2-2 draw against their more illustrious opponents in a pulsating encounter that swung dramatically from end to end.
Atlético Madrid struck first blood when Synne Jensen found the net in the 10th minute, the Norwegian forward capitalizing on early pressure to give the visitors the perfect start. However, Eibar's response proved swift and devastating. Carla Andrés leveled proceedings in the 14th minute, sending the home faithful into raptures with a clinical finish that showcased the hosts' determination to fight for every point. The momentum completely shifted six minutes later when Emma Moreno rifled home Eibar's second goal in the 20th minute, completing a remarkable turnaround that left Atlético reeling.
The tactical battle intensified as Atlético's technical superiority clashed with Eibar's relentless pressing and defensive organization. The visitors dominated possession but struggled to break down a resolute home defense that threw bodies on the line with increasing desperation. Yellow cards flew as the intensity ratcheted up, with Silvia Lloris cautioned in the 28th minute and Gaby García following suit in the 38th minute as Atlético's frustration mounted.
Despite commanding 73% possession and registering 15 shots compared to Eibar's 12, Atlético found themselves trailing at the break. The visitors managed just three shots on target from their territorial dominance, highlighting their struggles in the final third against Eibar's stubborn resistance.
The turning point arrived in the 59th minute when Vilde Bøe Risa stepped up to convert a crucial penalty, her composed spot-kick restoring parity and breathing life back into Atlético's afternoon. The Norwegian midfielder's ice-cool finish proved the catalyst for a frantic final half-hour as both sides pushed for the decisive goal.
Atlético coach made wholesale changes at halftime, introducing Andrea Medina, Alexia Fernández, Lauren, and Fiamma Iannuzzi in a desperate bid to unlock Eibar's defense. The substitutions injected fresh energy but couldn't provide the cutting edge needed to claim all three points. Eibar responded with their own tactical adjustments, bringing on Arene Altonaga in the 73rd minute before late introductions of Iara Lacosta and Opah Clement in the 88th minute. The tension boiled over in stoppage time when Clement received a yellow card in the 92nd minute as nerves frayed in the dying moments.
Looking ahead, Eibar will host Real Valladolid on December 19, while Atlético Madrid travel to face OL Lyonnes on December 17.