Atletico Madrid kicked off their UEFA Champions League campaign with a thrilling 2-1 win over RB Leipzig, courtesy of a last-minute header from defender Jose Maria Gimenez. The Spanish side, known for their resilience, once again demonstrated their ability to snatch victory in dramatic fashion. The game, played at the Wanda Metropolitano, was intense from the outset as both teams looked to secure early momentum in Group C.
The visitors, RB Leipzig, took a shock early lead just four minutes into the game when Benjamin Sesko rose highest to head the ball into the net, silencing the home crowd. Atletico Madrid, however, responded with determination, and their efforts were rewarded 24 minutes later when Antoine Griezmann equalized with a powerful volley from 12 yards, marking his 37th Champions League goal. Despite their best efforts, neither side could break the deadlock for much of the second half until Griezmann turned provider in the dying minutes.
Antoine Griezmann’s Star Performance Drives Atletico Madrid Comeback
Antoine Griezmann was at the heart of Atletico Madrid’s offensive efforts, not only scoring the equalizer but also setting up the winning goal in the 90th minute. The French World Cup winner continues to be a pivotal figure for Atletico Madrid, showcasing his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments. Griezmann’s first goal came in the 28th minute when he latched onto a cross with a stunning volley, bringing the Spanish side level. This marked his 37th goal in the Champions League, further cementing his place among the competition’s elite scorers.
Griezmann nearly added a second to his tally later in the match but was denied by RB Leipzig’s goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi, who made a crucial save to keep the game level. However, the forward’s influence didn’t end there. In the closing stages, Griezmann delivered a pinpoint cross from the left side, which found Jose Maria Gimenez. The Uruguayan defender headed the ball downwards into the net, securing Atletico Madrid late victory and sending their fans into a frenzy.
New Signing Gallagher Makes Champions League Debut for Atletico
England midfielder Conor Gallagher made his Champions League debut for Atletico Madrid, coming on as a substitute in the 63rd minute. Gallagher, who joined Atletico from Chelsea for £33 million in August, made an immediate impact in the middle of the park, showcasing his ability to break up play and launch counterattacks. His energetic performance helped shift momentum in Atletico’Madrid favor during a crucial phase of the match when both teams were level at 1-1.
Gallagher’s appearance made him the second English player to feature in the Champions League for Atletico Madrid, following in the footsteps of Kieran Trippier. As the 2024-25 season progresses, Gallagher will undoubtedly be looking to secure a more prominent role in Diego Simeone’s squad. With Atletico Madrid now set to face Benfica away on October 2, Gallagher will be aiming to build on this debut and make a significant contribution as they look to solidify their position in Group C. Meanwhile, RB Leipzig will return to action against Juventus, hoping to bounce back from this narrow defeat.
A Deserved but Hard-Fought Victory
Despite the nerve-wracking finish, Simeone was confident his team would have taken at least a point had the game ended in a draw. “I am totally satisfied, the match was very good. I would have said the same thing about a draw,” he reflected. He credited his team’s versatility and resilience, noting how the players adapted to different phases of the game and executed his strategies effectively.
Simeone also emphasized the impact of Atletico Madrid stronger midfield presence in the latter stages of the match. With players like Marcos Llorente, Koke, and Lino adding solidity, Atletico was able to contain RB Leipzig’s attacks and push for a winner. “We put a slightly stronger midfield to contain the midfield, and that’s how the goal came at the end, but it could have come much earlier,” he added. Ultimately, Atletico Madrid’s persistence paid off, and their coach’s tactical expertise once again shone through on Europe’s biggest stage
