Real Sociedad’s long wait for Champions League football is over despite falling to defeat away at Atletico Madrid.
Real Sociedad secured UEFA Champions League qualification despite goals from Antoine Griezmann and Nahuel Molina condemning them to a 2-1 defeat at Atletico Madrid on Sunday.
La Real headed to Civitas Metropolitano knowing that three points would secure a top-four finish in LaLiga for the first time since 2012-13.
But Griezmann’s superb first-half strike would have put Diego Simeone’s already qualified Atletico in front as he clipped onto his left foot before slotting into the far corner for his 15th league goal of the season.
Molina would secure the points for Atletico’s third, latching on to Griezmann’s neat through ball before smashing a deflected effort past Alex Remiro and into the net.
Alexander Sorloth pulled one back late on, Brais Mendez producing a superb assist to set up the striker in goal before the Norway international fired home.
But time ran out in their pursuit of an equalizer as the visitors fell to their first defeat in eight league games.
However, La Real could be celebrating at full-time as Villarreal’s 2-1 defeat away at Rayo Vallecano ensured Imanolo Alguacilo’s side will be playing Champions League football next season.
Atlético can still finish second. They are a point behind city rivals Real Madrid, who go into their final game of the season next weekend.