Granada, Jan 22 (EFE).- Atletico de Madrid put an end to a streak of four consecutive away defeats in LaLiga by winning 1-0 against Granada to retain fourth place in the points table on Monday.
Alvaro Morata struck in the 54th minute to ensure the win for Atletico at Nuevo Los Carmenes after a lackluster performance in the first half.
Granada started the game better and dominated the 15 minutes, although they caused concern for Atletico only once with a shot from Argentine Lucas Boye that went wide.
Atletico regained possession as the minutes passed but were slow and erratic in passing the ball against a Granada team that was always well-positioned.
The introduction of Brazilian Samuel Lino and Argentine Rodrigo De Paul in the second half added some impetus to Atletico’s play, and they did not wait too long for their desired goal.
Morata scored with a header after a cross from Antoine Griezmann from the right corner of the box to break the deadlock.
The match officials, however, took several minutes to confirm the goal as they checked the possible offside position of the attacker with VAR.
Saul Niguez also scored with a header a few minutes later, but it was quickly disallowed for being offside.
Granada tried to equalize the contest but couldn’t manage it.
Atletico have now added 41 points to their collection with the win, which puts them ahead of Athletic Club on goal difference.
They trail leaders Girona by 11 points and second-placed Real Madrid by 10 points. Barcelona are in the distant third with 44 points. EFE
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