Midfielder Continues to Progress as Atletico Drew With Levante
Johnny Cardoso endured a challenging evening at Estadio Ciudad de Valencia on Saturday as Atletico Madrid were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by relegation-threatened Levante, a result that left Diego Simeone's side nine points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona.
The 24-year-old American midfielder completed his first full 90 minutes in La Liga this season, having previously only played a complete match against Deportivo La Coruna in the Copa del Rey on January 13. His performance was characterized by industry and composure in possession but ultimately reflected Atletico's broader struggles to create meaningful attacking opportunities.
Cardoso completed the most passes of any player on the pitch with 54 successful deliveries from 59 attempts, achieving an impressive 92% accuracy rate. He also led all participants with 81 touches, attempting to dictate tempo from central midfield. His defensive contributions were significant, registering six tackles, two interceptions, two clearances, and five recoveries while winning 64% of his ground duels.
Despite his industrious display, the statistics highlighted Atletico's offensive deficiencies. Cardoso registered zero touches in the opposition penalty area and created no chances, though he did attempt 10 passes into the final third. His lone shot was blocked by Levante's defense, with Nico Gonzalez firing the rebound into the side netting just before halftime in one of Atletico's few threatening moments.
The match represented another difficult away performance for Simeone's side. While Cardoso provided stability and ball retention, Atletico desperately lacked the creative spark needed to unlock a determined Levante backline fighting for survival. With concerns mounting over injuries to Alexander Sorloth and Pablo Barrios from the same fixture, Cardoso's durability offers some consolation.
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