Atletico Madrid started their La Liga campaign with a resounding 3-0 victory over Girona at the Civitas Metropolitano stadium. The match showcased a dominant performance from Diego Simeone’s side, who overcame last season’s surprise package with a convincing display of attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
The first goal came in the 39th minute when Antoine Griezmann sent a free kick into the bottom far corner, beating Girona goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga, who had received a yellow card for handling the ball outside the box. Griezmann later reflected on his goal, saying, “The fans and the players were really looking forward to coming home after such a long time. A perfect night and let’s keep it going. I was waiting to see where the keeper was standing and I saw that there was a little gap at the far post and with a bit of luck it went in.”
Marcos Llorente doubled the advantage in the 42nd minute with a powerful long-range effort following a solo run, demonstrating his versatility and attacking threat. Griezmann praised his teammate, saying, “(Llorente) is like that, he always gives everything for the team. No matter what position you put him in, he gives 100% and these are the players we need at the club.”
Captain Koke, who came on early in the second half, added a third goal in stoppage time, sealing the victory with a tap-in from a Llorente cross. This was Koke’s first goal since the 2021-22 season, adding to the team’s overall impressive performance.
Girona, despite a strong start, found themselves unable to cope with Atletico’s attack and conceded three goals at critical moments. Their midfielder Oriol Romeu acknowledged the defeat, stating, “The goals came at the worst time for us. In the first half we did some very good things. The team leaves with a heavy defeat, but there are positives.”
Atletico Madrid will next host promoted Espanyol on Wednesday, aiming to maintain their positive momentum. Girona, meanwhile, faces Osasuna a day later seeking to bounce back from this loss.
Griezmann concluded with a message of optimism and focus, stating, “We all have the same enthusiasm, we have to keep it up. We have to give our all in training and then in the matches.”
