2024-08-26 19:40:02
August 26, (THEWILL) – Atlético Madrid won their first match of the 2024/2025 La Liga season, defeating Girona 3-0 at the Estadio Cívitas Metropolitano. The victory came after a significant summer spending spree, with new signings Robin Le Normand and Julián Alvarez featuring in the starting lineup.
The breakthrough came just before half-time when Antoine Griezmann converted a free-kick following a handball by Girona goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga, outside the box. Marcos Llorente doubled the lead early in the second half with a powerful strike that Gazzaniga failed to stop.
Despite Girona dominating possession after conceding the second goal, they struggled to create clear chances. Atlético manager Diego Simeone, introduced debutant Conor Gallagher, to help control the match. The home side sealed the win in injury time when Koke finished off a counter-attack.
The result gives Atlético four points from their first two matches, while Girona have just one point. The clean sheet was Atlético’s first at home in seven games, providing a boost to their defensive efforts. Girona, who qualified for the UEFA Champions League last season, may find it challenging to repeat that success after losing key players over the summer.
This comfortable victory will encourage Atlético in their quest to challenge Real Madrid and Barcelona, at the top of La Liga. However, their opening day draw against Villarreal suggests there is still room for improvement if they are to mount a serious title challenge this season.
