Atlético Féminas one point clear before big showdown

Since the last time we checked in on them, Atlético F From my last piece about the women’s team, Atlético Madrid Femenino have claimed three wins from five outings, drawing the other two. However, they still managed to put themselves in top spot ahead of the season run-in.

Their latest victory was against Sporting Huelva, where Ángel Villacampa’s team emerged as 4-2 winners. The Spanish tactician handed a second straight start to Romanian goalkeeper Andrea Paraluta in regular #1 Lola Gallardo’s absence. Moreover, Atlético could not bank on the quality of Kenti Robles, Viola Calligaris and Ludmilla, who this season has already scored nine goals in 21 games. Atlético’s depth, however, shone through in this victory. Esther González scored twice, with her fifth and sixth goal in 17 games. Amanda Sampedro added her sixth goal from 21 outings and Sonia Bermúdez, Atlético’s top scorer, notched her 11th goal in 19 games.

Their previous outing, however, was a tricky test against sixth-place Valencia, who gave Atlético a run for their money despite their difficult season. The usual suspect, Bermúdez, proved to be difference between the two teams as the colchoneros went on to grab the victory.

Atlético’s other victory in this stretch was a 2-1 win over Santa Teresa with Ludmila and González scoring twice in the closing stages to turn around the score and claim all three points.

Villacampa’s clan, meanwhile, drew against Real Sociedad (1-1) and Athletic Club (2-2).

Meanwhile, Atlético played two friendlies in order to maintain their level of play as high as possible. They hosted Santa Fe, winners of last year’s Colombian championship, and drew 1-1. After that, Atleti broke little sweat in overcoming a Jordan Women’s challenge, winning that match 6-1.

In addition, four rojiblancos represented Spain in the annual Cyprus Cup: Lola Gallardo, Andrea Pereira, Amanda Sampedro and Marta Corredera. Spain beat Italy 2-0 in the final on Wendesday.

All eyes now are on Atlético Femenino’s visit to Catalonia, where they will put a one-point advantage in the table on the line against their nearest challengers.