La Liga round-up: Girona's poor form continues, Atletico Madrid beat Real Betis, Villarreal beat Granada
The third day of action on MD27 of the 2023-24 La Liga season produced more compelling action. The trip from Barcelona to the Athletic Club was the highlight fixture, but before that, Villarreal hosted struggling Granada, Atletico Madrid took on Real Betis, and Mallorca entertained Girona at Son Moix.
Villarreal 5-1 Granada
Villarreal they recorded back-to-back wins in La Liga for the first time this season, after meeting Granada in an emphatic way to Ceramics. Alexander Sorloth was the main man for the home side as they bagged an impressive hat-trick, his first since joining from RB Leipzig last summer.
Etienne Capoue and Goncalo Guedes were also on the scoresheet for Villarreal, while Theodor Corbeanu added a late consolation for the visitors.
Atletico Madrid 2-1 Real Betis
Atletico Madrid bounced back from their Copa del Rey exit to take a quick 2-1 win The Real Betis. Rui Silva's own goal gave the hosts a dream start, before Alvaro Morata ended his eight-match clean sheet to double the lead just before half-time.
William Carvalho scored a stunning goal in the second half, but it wasn't enough for Betis.
Mallorca 1-0 Girona
Girona have now lost three of their last four games, after succumbing to a one-goal defeat against Mallorca at Son Moix. Jose Copete scored the winner, which moved the house to 15th in the table.
Girona are now seven points clear of Real Madrid in the title race, although they remain second as Barcelona failed to capitalize against Athletic.
