The China Mail - Sorloth downs Oviedo, fires Atletico up to third

Diego Simeone's side are unbeaten in 13 league matches after an opening day defeat by Espanyol and trail leaders Barca by three points.

Sorloth opened the scoring from close range after 16 minutes and blasted home his second 10 minutes later, with both goals laid on by David Hancko.

After an inconsistent start to the campaign, Simeone's side have found their groove.

"I think now we're doing well, not just defensively but also offensively," goalkeeper Jan Oblak told DAZN.

"The truth is, we've been playing well, but we have to keep it up because the past doesn't matter. What matters is the future."

Oblak returned in goal after injury as Atletico comfortably saw off their visitors, who are bottom of the table.

Sorloth put the Rojiblancos ahead after Hancko rolled the ball across the six-yard box for the target man to dispatch.

Atletico have taken the lead in all 14 of their league games this season.

Sorloth smashed in the second after Hancko crossed for him and the forward got the better of David Carmo, who tried to cut out the ball but was outmuscled.

Haissem Hassan could not find a finish after good work by Santi Cazorla as Oviedo created their first clear opportunity.

Atletico came under little threat in the second half as Oviedo fell to a ninth defeat.

"We can't give up yet -- there's still a long way to go. We have to pick ourselves up... we knew today was a tough match," said veteran playmaker and Oviedo captain Cazorla.

Atletico fans clapped off the 40-year-old when he was substituted and the former Arsenal midfielder said he appreciated it.

"I'm eternally grateful to the Atletico fans, it's the best gift (that I can take from this)," added Cazorla.

W.Tam--ThChM