Atletico Madrid suffer a shock 3-2 defeat to Elche in La Liga, extending their poor run ahead of their Champions League clash with Arsenal

Atletico Madrid suffered a damaging 3-2 defeat to Elche CF in La Liga on Wednesday, extending their poor run of form to seven losses in their last eight matches across all competitions.

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The result comes just days after Atletico Madrid lost the Copa del Rey final on penalties to Real Sociedad, further deepening concerns over momentum ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final clash with Arsenal next week.

Diego Simeone, head coach of Atletico Madrid, rotated heavily for the fixture, fielding a largely second-string squad in a bid to rest key players following the exhausting cup final.

Despite the changes, the team failed to avoid another setback.

Argentina winger Nicolás González scored twice for Atletico Madrid, showing individual quality in an otherwise difficult night.

However, Elche CF responded strongly through a brace from André Silva and a decisive goal from David Affengruber.

Elche CF took the lead after Affengruber opened the scoring, before Atletico Madrid briefly responded through González.

The match swung further in Elche’s favour after a red card to Thiago Almada in the 30th minute left Atletico Madrid with ten men for over an hour.

Andre Silva converted from the penalty spot after the foul that led to Almada’s dismissal, while González quickly levelled the match with a composed finish that momentarily revived Atletico Madrid’s hopes.

However, Elche CF sealed the victory late on when André Silva struck again from close range after sustained pressure inside the box.

The goal ensured a vital three points for Elche in their fight to avoid relegation.

The defeat leaves Atletico Madrid comfortably positioned in fourth place in La Liga, but their alarming run of form raises serious questions ahead of their European challenge.

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Elche CF, meanwhile, moved provisionally to 15th place, just two points above the relegation zone, boosting their survival hopes with a crucial win.