Key Takeaways:
- Lee Kang-in scored a stunning goal in his debut as Atletico Madrid claimed a 2-0 win over Málaga at the Metropolitano last night
- Diego Simeone’s side have now suffered only one defeat in their last 15 meetings with Málaga (W10, D4)
- Alex Baena secured the result with a remarkable 25-yard free-kick late in the match
Match Overview
Atletico Madrid launched their new LaLiga campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over newly-promoted Málaga at the Metropolitano. The hosts, determined to improve on their disappointing lowest points tally in 14 years from the 2025/26 season, emerged triumphant thanks to standout strikes from debutant Lee Kang-in and Alex Baena.
First Half: Defensive Stalemate
The early proceedings in the Spanish capital were tightly contested, as opportunities were scarce for both teams. Rodrigo Mendoza tested Alfonso Herrero from distance, but the Málaga goalkeeper was equal to the task. With Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth unavailable, Atletico struggled in the attacking third, allowing Málaga to grow into the contest before half-time.
In first-half stoppage time, Jan Oblak produced a vital double save to keep Atlético level, thwarting efforts from Chupe and David Larrubia in quick succession and ensuring a goalless interval.
+3 para empezar 🔴⚪️ pic.twitter.com/KCLeo4DZi6
— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) August 19, 2026
Second Half: Substitutes Make the Difference
Intent on breaking the deadlock, Atletico increased their attacking intent after the restart, with Ademola Lookman and Rodriguez Mendoza both coming close. Diego Simeone responded by introducing Lee Kang-in, Giuliano Simeone, and Alex Baena just before the hour mark. The changes proved decisive.
Lee Kang-in immediately announced himself to the Atlético faithful, cutting inside from the right and curling an exquisite left-footed effort into the top corner to give the home side the lead in the 70th minute.
Energised by the opener, Atlético pressed forward, with Lookman denied by Herrero and David Hancko seeing his header crash against the crossbar. In the closing moments, Baena sealed the result by expertly dispatching a 25-yard free-kick into the roof of the net.
Overview
Diego Simeone has now lost just once in 15 La Liga opening fixtures at the helm (W8, D6). Atletico have also extended their strong head-to-head record against Málaga, recording ten wins and four draws from their past 15 clashes.
