Atlético Madrid’s 12th consecutive UEFA Champions League campaign began with a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over RB Leipzig at the Metropolitano Stadium. This victory maintained their 28-year unbeaten home run against German sides and showcased the spirit and resilience that have become synonymous with Diego Simeone’s team. Let’s dive into the heart-pounding action from Madrid.
Early Setback for Atléti
Leipzig, who have been gaining a reputation for their high-intensity football, struck first in the early stages of the match. Benjamin Šeško, the Slovenian sensation, was at the heart of the action. After setting up Loïs Openda’s initial attempt, Šeško pounced on Jan Oblak’s parried save, outpacing Robin Le Normand and heading home the opener. It was a shock for the home fans, given that Atlético hadn’t lost a home UCL game in two years.
The early goal seemed to shake up Atlético, who struggled to find the rhythm. Rodrigo Riquelme’s solo run almost resulted in an immediate equalizer, but Leipzig’s Willi Orbán made a crucial block to deny Antoine Griezmann. It was a sign of things to come as Atléti slowly began to take control of the game.
Griezmann’s Milestone Moment
The home side’s efforts were finally rewarded before halftime. Marcos Llorente delivered a pinpoint cross from the right flank, and there was Griezmann, left unmarked, to guide the ball into the roof of the net expertly. This wasn’t just any goal; it marked Griezmann’s 21st strike in the UCL, taking him past the legendary Ferenc Puskás as the 20th all-time top scorer in the competition. It was a special moment for the Frenchman, who is proving to be the heartbeat of Atlético’s attack.
Griezmann almost doubled his tally shortly after the break, firing just over the bar. However, as the game progressed, both sides seemed more cautious, about making mistakes that could cost them dearly.
Tactical Masterclass in the Second Half
Simeone and his Leipzig counterpart Marco Rose made several tactical adjustments in the second half, aiming to break the deadlock. Introducing former Leipzig striker Alexander Sørloth added a new dimension to Atlético’s play. Sørloth had a golden chance to score against his former club but directed his header straight at Péter Gulácsi.
On the other hand, Leipzig came close through Yussuf Poulsen, whose glancing header narrowly missed the target. As time ticked away, Leipzig seemed content with a point, retreating into a defensive shell. This invited relentless pressure from the hosts, desperate for all three points.
Giménez Seals the Comeback
When it seemed like the match would end in a draw, the Metropolitano erupted in the 90th minute. Griezmann, not content with his earlier heroics, sent a looping cross into the box. José María Giménez, rising above everyone else, nodded the ball across the goal and into the far corner. The Uruguayan’s powerful header left Gulácsi rooted to the spot, sending the home fans into raptures.
Diego Simeone, known for his passionate celebrations, stormed down the touchline, punching the air in delight. It was a well-deserved victory for Atlético, who had shown great character in overturning the early deficit.
What’s Next for Atlético?
With this victory, Atlético Madrid has laid down a marker in Group E. However, the road ahead is challenging, and they will need to replicate this form if they hope to progress beyond the quarterfinals for the first time since 2017. They can now revel in a perfect start to their UCL campaign.
