“He is a determinant player,” Diego Simeone said of Julián Álvarez following the forward’s first goal of the season for Atlético de Madrid. Álvarez ended a 174-day scoring drought on Tuesday, netting the equalizing goal in a 1-1 draw against Stuttgart in the third match of the Champions League initial phase.

Álvarez ends scoring drought against Stuttgart

Julián Álvarez scored the equalizing goal shortly after the start of the second half during Atlético de Madrid’s visit to Germany. Following a play on the left wing, the 26-year-old Argentine striker used his left foot to place the ball into the upper corner of the net. The goal brought the match to 1-1 after Atlético had trailed 1-0 at halftime.

The strike marked the end of a streak of seven consecutive games without a goal for the club. Álvarez had not scored for the Colchonero since April 29, when he found the net against Arsenal in the semifinals of the previous Champions League. In total, 174 days passed between goals, spanning nine matches and more than 450 minutes of play.

Simeone and teammates back the Argentine forward

Following the match, manager Diego Simeone praised the striker’s physical effort and work on the left flank. Simeone stated in a press conference that he was very happy for the player and emphasized that the team needs Álvarez to reach their objectives.

The support extended to the locker room. Spanish defender Alejandro Grimaldo said that Álvarez is the team’s best player and had been creating many opportunities in previous matches, noting that the goal was a necessary milestone for the forward.

Tensions with Atlético supporters and transfer history

The goal comes amid a strained relationship between Álvarez and the Atlético de Madrid fanbase. Supporters had recently whistled and reproached the attacker during a match at the Metropolitano.

This friction stems from a controversial transfer window in which Álvarez expressed a desire to move to Barcelona. The player suggested after the victory against Austria, in plena Copa del Mundo 2026, that a transfer would be the best outcome for all parties. Atlético de Madrid remained inflexible, citing a €500 million release clause and refusing to negotiate.

The player began the season appearing uncomfortable, though a recent victory over Real Madrid at the Metropolitano had begun to ease the tension before this goal furthered the reconciliation process.

Atlético de Madrid holds 15th place in standings

The 1-1 draw earned Atlético de Madrid one point in Germany. The team now holds four points after three matches, placing them 15th in the standings and within the playoff qualification zone.

Simeone noted that the match dynamics shifted in the second half following the red card issued to Danish player Morten Hjulmand in the 20th minute of the second period. To attempt a late victory, Simeone introduced Sorloth to play alongside Lookman, who provided the assist for Álvarez’s goal.

Julián Álvarez scoring timeline

Common questions regarding Álvarez’s form

Why was there tension between Julián Álvarez and the fans?
The friction arose after Álvarez publicly indicated his intention to be transferred to Barcelona. Atlético de Madrid refused to negotiate, maintaining a €500 million release clause.

When did Julián Álvarez last score for Atlético?
His previous goal occurred on April 29 during the Champions League semifinals against Arsenal.

How does this result affect Atlético’s position in the tournament?
The draw leaves Atlético with four points in three games, currently sitting in 15th place in the Champions League standings.

Atlético de Madrid will next face Bayern in the Metropolitano in the following Champions League fixture.