• Kirkland: Atlético’s emphatic derby win could be the turning point of their season

• Alonso on 5-2 loss to Atlético: “This one hurts”

Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid handed Xabi Alonso his first defeat of the campaign, ending Real Madrid’s perfect run of six LaLiga victories and a Champions League-opening win. Alonso’s only other setback since taking charge last summer came against Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semifinals in July.

Barcelona now has the chance to leapfrog Madrid at the top of the table with a win at Real Sociedad on Sunday. Meanwhile, Atlético climbed to fourth, six points off the leaders.

“We knew how important this game was — a derby, and the chance to cut the gap at the top,” said Julián Álvarez. “We controlled the match, kept pushing forward, created a lot of chances and finished them.”

Álvarez, who netted twice in the victory, had suffered heartbreak in March when a slip during a penalty shootout against Madrid saw his effort disallowed, paving the way for Madrid to reach the Champions League quarterfinals.

“But every penalty is a new kick, every match a new chance,” Álvarez reflected.

Simeone was visibly emotional after Álvarez’s second goal, appearing to wipe tears from his eyes.

“I feel so many emotions. This season started with difficulties, but thanks to the effort of so many people we are now doing something wonderful,” Simeone said.

After their worst LaLiga start under Simeone in more than a decade, Atlético desperately needed this result to stay in the title race. Álvarez, signed from Manchester City last season, has been central to their resurgence. Just days earlier, he scored his first European hat trick in a 3-2 win over Rayo Vallecano.

“[Álvarez] gives everything — not just in attack, but also pressing and working hard in defense,” Simeone added. “We need him, and we have to look after him because he’s exceptional. I hope he stays at this club for many years.”