Oblak
Girona attempted to exploit their chances with consistent crosses into the box, but the Slovenian goalkeeper remained composed throughout the match. Despite Girona’s struggle to create significant opportunities, Oblak made four crucial saves and gained confidence as the match progressed. Rating: 6
Lino
The Brazilian player’s two shots early in the game foreshadowed his impactful performance. Lino consistently pushed forward, frequently linking up with Riquelme to create challenges on the left side. Rating: 7
Azpilicueta
He utilized spaces effectively during brief possessions and his ability to distribute the ball wide contributed to the team’s attacking threat. Defensively, the center-back excelled with five clearances and four ground duels won. Rating: 7
Giménez
A solid presence in defense, Giménez made seven clearances and two blocks. His fitness significantly enhances Atlético Madrid’s defensive solidity. Rating: 7.5
Le Normand
The ex-Real Sociedad player initiated the team’s opening goal with a powerful long pass. He also recorded three tackles and six clearances, while winning six ground duels. Rating: 7.5
Llorente
He effectively contained Miguel Gutiérrez and Bryan Gil while making a memorable impact with a stunning goal in the second half. After creating space, Llorente drove from beyond the halfway line and unleashed a powerful shot past Paulo Gazzaniga. In the closing minutes, he assisted Koke’s goal to seal the victory. Rating: 8
Riquelme
He sought opportunities to advance with the ball, though he occasionally suffered from narrow focus. His contributions allowed him to create dangerous chances, while his partnership with Lino on the left will be interesting to watch as the season unfolds. Rating: 7
De Paul
He received an early yellow card for a careless foul on Daley Blind. Although he aimed to distribute effectively, he struggled to deliver the penetrating passes that he usually excels at. Rating: 4
Barrios
Delivering a strong performance at both ends, Barrios excelled in possession, achieving 47 completed passes out of 50. Defensively, he contributed with five tackles, two interceptions, and four clearances. His ability to maintain possession late in the game was instrumental in setting up Koke’s late strike. Rating: 8
Alvarez
The striker had limited scoring opportunities but showcased his determination through pressing and runs. His pressure on Gazzaniga in the first half led to a foul, setting up Antoine Griezmann’s stunning free-kick goal. He also played a role in Griezmann assisting Llorente’s impressive goal. Rating: 6
Griezmann
Capitalizing on available opportunities, Griezmann scored from a direct free kick in the 39th minute and later provided an acrobatic assist for Llorente’s goal. This free-kick was Atlético’s first since January 2021. Rating: 7.5
Subs
Gallagher
Making his debut for Atlético Madrid, the Englishman displayed assertiveness and a desire to make an impact. His fresh energy added dynamism to the match, accompanied by some solid forward runs. Rating: 5.5
Conor Gallagher’s Atlético Madrid debut at a glance:
37 minutes played
2 tackles won
3 duels won
2 fouls committed
3 clearances
Koke
The veteran contributed to the midfield with his experience and played a vital role in defensive coverage. He scored a tap-in to secure the victory in stoppage time. Rating: 7
Reinildo
After replacing Lino, Reinildo developed a promising connection with Gallagher on the left side. Rating: 5
Correa
He sought to create counterattacking chances and used his fresh energy to aid in maintaining the team’s clean sheet. Rating: 5
Sørloth
Similar to Correa, his scoring opportunities were limited as the team focused on solidifying their defense. Rating: 5