It’s a miracle.
Alvaro Morata managed to make a miraculous recovery from injury after he realised he had scored for Atlético Madrid.
Morata led the line for Atlético in their 2-0 win against Elche on Thursday night and doubled their lead after João Felix opened the scoring.
The Spain international’s left-footed effort deflected over the Elche goalkeeper but was unaware the ball had gone in after he had gone down to the ground following a challenge in the build-up to the strike.
He didn’t realise until he saw teammate Antoine Griezmann celebrating, sparking the quickest recovery you have ever seen as Morata got up and questioned the Frenchman before realising the goal was in fact his.
Morata had no idea he'd scored… 😂😂@atletienglish | @AlvaroMorata pic.twitter.com/6yTQNX9aWb
— LALIGA TV (@LaLigaTV) December 29, 2022
After the game, the 30-year-old told Movistar: “I was on the ground and I thought it had been a goal for Griezmann.
“I thought that after the rebound, he had scored. It was important to win. Especially in our stadium, we want the fans to have a good end to their year. We thank them for our support.”
It was one of a series of events as three players were shown red cards at the Wanda Metropolitano.
Elche defender Gonzalo Verdu was shown a straight red for pulling down Morata on the edge of the box before Mario Hermoso of Atlético was dismissed shortly after the break.
Domingos Quina was then given his marching orders in stoppage time after fouling Morata to leave the away side finishing the game with nine men.
A Felix and Griezmann masterclass inspired Atleti to victory on Thursday evening! 🔴⚪️
🎞️ #AtletiElche highlights 👇#LaLigaTV | #LaLigaHighlights pic.twitter.com/jLSawXIDr4
— LALIGA TV (@LaLigaTV) December 29, 2022
Manchester United have been linked with making a loan move for Morata as they desperately look to bolster their striking options.
Following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford are the only two recognised senior strikers at the club.
United missed out on Cody Gakpo, who joined Liverpool instead, leaving Erik ten Hag frustrated.
Related links:
- The reason why Cody Gakpo chose Liverpool over Man United
- Man United sign new striker according to Premier League website
- Ander Herrera walks out of Man United podcast
