Madrid, Sep 25 (NationPress) Julian Alvarez netted a remarkable hat-trick, propelling Atletico Madrid to a crucial 3-2 victory in their derby match against Rayo Vallecano at home. Initially, Atletico appeared destined for defeat, which would have left Diego Simeone's team trailing 12 points behind the leaders, until Alvarez struck twice in the dying moments to reverse their fortunes.

The Argentinian forward opened the scoring with a superb finish just 14 minutes into the match, but Rayo fought back as Josep Chavarria equalized before halftime, and Alvaro Garcia gave the visitors a 2-1 lead in the 76th minute, according to reports from Xinhua.

Alvarez brought the game level just three minutes later, capitalizing on a blunder by Rayo goalkeeper Augusto Batalla, and sealed the win with a left-footed strike from outside the box with only two minutes remaining in regular time.

Meanwhile, Real Sociedad secured their first win of the season by defeating fellow strugglers Mallorca, with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring the decisive goal in the 48th minute.

Sociedad started strong, frequently attacking down the left side. Barrene had a close chance but misfired, and Aramburu squandered a header opportunity from a corner.

Mallorca struggled to create chances in the first half, with their best effort coming from Mateo Joseph, whose attempt was saved by Remiro.

Just before halftime, Oyarzabal set up Barrene for another chance, but he shot over the bar.

Four minutes into the second half, Oyarzabal converted after a slick passing move involving Soler, Kubo, and Barrene. Despite creating more opportunities, including a glaring miss from Kubo, the txuri urdin could not extend their lead, making for a tense finish until the final whistle.

Earlier in the day, Getafe drew 1-1 with Alaves at home, with Mauro Arambarri scoring first for the hosts in the first half with a quick shot from inside the box. Ander Guevara equalized for Alaves seven minutes later following a corner kick.