Atlético Madrid, not Real, overtake Barcelona on top of LaLiga

Premier League: A Historic Christmas for Manchester United

Manchester United fans might be feeling a bit nostalgic this Christmas, but not in the way they would have hoped. After a 3-0 loss at home to AFC Bournemouth, the Red Devils find themselves in unfamiliar territory, spending Christmas in the bottom half of the Premier League for the first time since 1989. This was before the Premier League even existed, marking a significant low point for the club.

The match against Bournemouth was a painful reminder of the issues that have plagued United this season. Conceding from a set piece yet again, their ninth of the season, they now only trail Wolves, who have conceded 14 from such situations. The team also missed four big chances and slipped into a negative goal difference for the campaign, now sitting at -1.

Ruben Amorim’s tenure as manager has shown glimpses of promise, but with four losses from six matches and a worrying 14 goals conceded in those games, it’s clear there’s a lot of work to be done. The defensive set pieces are a glaring weakness that needs urgent attention. When Dean Huijsen scored Bournemouth’s opener, the groans from Old Trafford were telling. United’s progress under Amorim will be limited if they continue to present such an Achilles heel to their opponents.

Best Match: Tottenham Hotspur 3-6 Liverpool

In a match that could only be described as a rollercoaster, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool delivered a nine-goal thriller that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Mohamed Salah, Luis Díaz, and the rest of the Liverpool squad took full advantage of a makeshift Spurs defense and a bold strategy that backfired for the home team. Despite a late surge from Tottenham, Liverpool managed to secure the points in a game that will be remembered for its relentless pace and excitement.

Best Goal: Morgan Rogers vs. Man City

While Trent Alexander-Arnold’s cross for Díaz’s opener against Spurs was a thing of beauty, Morgan Rogers’ goal against Man City was a masterclass in teamwork and individual brilliance. Starting deep in his own half, Rogers beat three defenders, laid the ball off, received it back, and finished with precision using his weaker left foot. It was a goal that showcased his skill and composure.

MVP of the Weekend: Alexander Isak, Newcastle United

Alexander Isak’s first-ever Premier League hat trick was a standout performance that led Newcastle to a dominant victory over Ipswich Town. His ability to keep his first effort low and controlled, followed by two composed finishes in the box, capped off a perfect week for the Magpies. Isak’s performance was a testament to his growing influence in the league.

LaLiga: Sørloth Leads Atlético Past Barça to the Top

Atlético Madrid fans have every reason to celebrate this Christmas as their team sits atop the LaLiga table. Alexander Sørloth’s 96th-minute winner against Barcelona secured a 2-1 comeback win at Montjuïc, marking one of the most significant results of the season. Atlético’s impressive run of 12 consecutive wins in all competitions contrasts sharply with Barcelona’s struggles, having dropped 16 points in seven league games.

Diego Simeone’s side has transformed from being 10 points behind the leaders to becoming the team to beat. “We’ve found ourselves along the way,” Simeone remarked, highlighting the team’s collective strength and the impact of players coming off the bench. Sørloth, in particular, has been a revelation, scoring eight goals in LaLiga this season, with his last five coming as a substitute.

With Antoine Griezmann and Julián Álvarez leading the attack and Sørloth in reserve, Atlético has a potent formula that has propelled them to the top. The challenge now is to maintain this momentum until the end of the season.

Best Match: Leganés 2-5 Villarreal

In a match filled with drama, Villarreal emerged victorious against Leganés in a game that featured three penalties, two red cards, and a hat trick from Thierno Barry. Despite Leganés taking the lead twice, they ended the match with nine men, allowing Villarreal to secure all three points and stay in contention for a top-four finish.

Best Goal: Federico Valverde vs. Sevilla

Federico Valverde’s goal against Sevilla was a stunning strike that rivaled Kylian Mbappé’s opener in Real Madrid’s 4-2 win. Valverde’s powerful shot from distance demonstrated his exceptional ability to hit the ball, making it one of the standout goals of the weekend.

MVP of the Weekend: Pablo Durán, Celta Vigo

Pablo Durán’s performance for Celta Vigo was a highlight of the weekend, as the young talent scored twice in six minutes to secure a victory over Real Sociedad. These were Durán’s first goals for the team, and his emergence adds to the excitement surrounding Celta’s homegrown talent this season.

Bundesliga: Bayern Get Back on Track by Thrashing Leipzig

RB Leipzig’s visit to Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena was a humbling experience as they suffered a 5-1 defeat to the Bundesliga leaders. Leipzig’s defensive approach allowed Bayern to rediscover their form, with Jamal Musiala and Alphonso Davies delivering standout performances.

Harry Kane’s return from injury was overshadowed by Musiala’s dazzling display and Davies’ contributions, including a goal and an assist. Leipzig’s passive approach raised questions about their direction under Marco Rose, especially after a disappointing Champions League campaign.

Leipzig’s identity, once defined by high-intensity pressing, seemed lost as they adopted a defensive 5-3-2 formation. Despite fielding quality players like Benjamin Sesko and Loïs Openda, Leipzig’s lackluster performance highlighted the gap between them and Bayern.

Best Match: Bayer Leverkusen 5-1 SC Freiburg

Leverkusen’s victory over Freiburg was a testament to their attacking prowess, with Patrik Schick and Florian Wirtz leading the charge. The win marked Leverkusen’s eighth consecutive success, reinforcing their status as Bayern’s main challengers this season.

Best Goal: Shuto Machino vs. FC Augsburg

Holstein Kiel’s Shuto Machino delivered a stunning 30-yard free kick against Augsburg, curling the ball beautifully into the net. The goal was a highlight in Kiel’s 5-1 victory, providing a much-needed boost before the Christmas break.

MVP of the Weekend: Alphonso Davies, Bayern Munich

Alphonso Davies’ performance against Leipzig was a reminder of his immense talent. The left-back’s goal, assist, and defensive contributions were crucial in Bayern’s victory. With speculation about a move to Real Madrid, Davies’ potential new deal with Bayern could solidify his place among the club’s greats.

What Else You Missed This Weekend

Genk Fight to Stay Top in Belgium

In Belgium’s Jupiler Pro League, Genk maintained their position at the top of the table with a decisive 2-0 victory over Anderlecht. Goalkeeper Hendrik van Crombrugge and goal scorer Tolu Arokodare redeemed themselves after previous mistakes, with Van Crombrugge keeping a clean sheet and Arokodare scoring the go-ahead goal. Genk’s win ensures they remain league leaders over Christmas.