Atletico star seeks crucial win

In contrast to last term when they won the Europa League and reached the final of the Copa del Rey, Atletico have had a hugely-disappointing campaign, but they still have the opportunity to salvage a top-six finish and qualify to play in Europe next season.

Last week's away victory over Osasuna left Quique Sanchez Flores' men in eighth spot and within three points of the three teams immediately above them - Athletic Bilbao, Sevilla and Espanyol - with eight games remaining.

With Espanyol in freefall having lost eight of their last 10 games and Athletic facing a tough home game with Real Madrid this weekend, Atletico could significantly improve their situation with a victory over Sociedad at the Vicente Calderon - and that's exactly what Godin is targeting.

The Uruguay international said: "Getting the three points (against Osasuna) was difficult. We were coming off a break in league play and now we have to build on that win against Real Sociedad. The match against the Basque side is fundamental to our aspirations.

"We're really looking forward to the game. It's been an inconsistent season and now we depend on ourselves. It's an important game and we must give it absolutely everything."

Sociedad looked like possible European challengers themselves not so long ago, but now they will just be happy to stay up after taking only one point from their last six matches.

That has seen last season's Segunda Division drop down to 14th place in the table, six points above the drop zone.

Sociedad captain Mikel Aranburu said: "We're worried, but survival is in our hands."