Atlético Madrid struck a huge blow at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán. Winners 3-1 over FC Sevilla, the Colchoneros built their success in the first half before defending their lead with great authority. A match of two halves, perfectly managed by Diego Simeone.
Kang-in Lee, the trigger
The match was virtually decided in the first 33 minutes. Deployed in Simeone's 4-4-2, Kang-in Lee did not stay glued to his flank. The South Korean constantly drifted into the right half-space, drawing in Sevilla's midfielders and opening up space for his full-back's runs.
This hybrid positioning hurt the Andalusian block. In the 25th minute, Kang-in Lee found Lookman with a perfectly weighted pass for the 0-2. Always available, he also allowed Atlético to keep possession and break the opponent's rhythm.
Baena and Lookman blow Seville away
Around this movement, Álex Baena was surgical. With his free positioning and Lookman's runs, Atlético constantly found space between the lines.
After the opener, Lookman doubled the lead before Baena struck again to make it 0-3. Three goals, maximum efficiency, and above all an attacking pattern that completely disorganized Sevilla.
Sevilla react, Atlético lock down
After the break, the script changes. Sevilla push harder, win more duels and create several chances. Miguel Sierra pulls one back in the 66th minute and briefly revives the suspense.
But Simeone quickly understands the danger. The substitutions of Lookman and Kang-in Lee, followed by the introduction of more defensive and experienced players, allow Atlético to drop back into a lower block.
Sevilla finish with more shots, but no longer find a way through.
Atlético made the difference through their efficiency in the first half, then through their solidity in holding on to their lead.
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