Atletico Madrid demonstrated their attacking depth without the suspended Julian Alvarez on 30 August, routing Sevilla 3-1 away from home in a commanding La Liga display. The result underlines that Diego Simeone's side can function effectively even as Alvarez's future at the club remains unresolved.

Atletico Dismantle Sevilla in 33 Minutes

Alex Baena scored twice and Ademola Lookman added a third to give Atletico a 3-0 lead inside the opening 33 minutes — a blistering opening spell against a Sevilla side that had won its first two games of the season. Miguel Sierra pulled one back for the hosts in the 66th minute, but the deficit was too large to overturn.

Alvarez's absence had dominated the build-up, with reports suggesting the Argentina international is pushing for a move to Barcelona. Atletico's ruthless first-half performance offered a pointed response to any suggestion that his departure would derail their campaign.

Levante Thrash Betis 5-2 in Goal Feast

Levante claimed their first win of the season with a 5-2 victory at home to Betis. Adrian de la Fuente, Enzo Bardeli, Jon Ander Olasagasti, and Roger Brugue — who netted twice — were on the scoresheet for the hosts. Betis had threatened a comeback through Marc Bartra and Rodrigo Riquelme, drawing level at 2-2 before halftime, but Levante pulled clear in the second half.

Real Sociedad Open Account Against Espanyol

Real Sociedad took their first points of the season with a 2-1 home win over Espanyol. Ander Barrenetxea finished smartly after a pass from Mikel Oyarzabal, and Orri Oskarsson added the second. Roberto Fernandez scored for Espanyol, but the visitors were largely outplayed throughout.

Racing Santander's Historic First La Liga Win in 14 Years

On Friday night, new signing Yassir Zabiri scored a first-half hat-trick as Racing Santander claimed their first La Liga victory in 14 years, defeating Elche 3-2. Elche threatened a comeback when Buba Sangare and Fer Nino struck in the 78th and 79th minutes respectively, but Racing held on for a historic three points.

Villarreal Slip Up as Alaves Stay Unbeaten

Villarreal remain without a win after a 1-0 defeat away to Deportivo Alaves, who have now collected two wins and a draw from their opening three games. Lucas Boye headed home a first-half goal from Angel Perez's low cross to settle the contest. Villarreal dominated possession — recording 74 percent of the ball — but were unable to convert their chances, leaving coach Inigo Perez with clear questions to answer.

With the early La Liga standings beginning to take shape, the weekend's results suggest Atletico remain title contenders regardless of the Alvarez situation, while Racing Santander's fairytale return to the top flight has taken on a new dimension.