Atlético de Madrid negated a potential Copa del Rey upset with a 2-0 win in their first-round tie at Vic.
Scorers: Alvarez (PEN) 81′, 90′
Sent off: Senyé
Diego Simeone’s side laboured for large parts against their sixth-tier Catalan hosts before a moment of fortune in the closing stages.
The Colchoneros were awarded a penalty in the 80th minute when Gil Bertrana sent Giuliano Simeone sprawling to the turf.
Vic also saw Alfons Senyé dismissed for his second booking in six minutes for remonstrating with the match official over the decision.
Julián Alvarez stepped up to spare his side’s potential blushes by converting from the penalty spot to break the deadlock.
The Argentine international assured victory at the end of normal time, sweeping home from a well-worked counterattack.
Atleti host Las Palmas on Sunday as they aim to close the gap to Barcelona at LaLiga’s summit.
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