Atletico Madrid made a winning start to their La Liga campaign on Wednesday, defeating promoted Malaga 2-0 at the Metropolitano Stadium.
Substitutes Kang-In Lee and Alex Baena were the difference for Diego Simeone’s side, scoring superb second-half goals to secure all three points despite the absence of forward Julian Alvarez.
Alvarez, who had reportedly wanted a move to Barcelona, was left out as he continues to regain full fitness following a post-World Cup break, alongside several other players.
Simeone fielded a youthful Atletico side, but the hosts struggled to break down a disciplined Malaga defence in the opening half.
Malaga, who were relegated from La Liga in 2018 and later dropped to Spain’s third tier before battling their way back, kept Atletico frustrated for much of the first half.
Simeone responded before the hour mark by introducing Lee, Baena and his son Giuliano, and the changes quickly transformed the game.
Lee, signed from Paris Saint-Germain during the summer, opened the scoring in the 70th minute. The Korea international collected the ball on the right, cut across the edge of the area and curled a superb effort into the far corner.
It was a memorable debut at the Metropolitano for Lee, who has taken the number seven shirt previously worn by Atletico great Antoine Griezmann, following the Frenchman’s move to Orlando City.
Atletico continued to press for a second goal, with Ademola Lookman and David Hancko coming close as the hosts increased the pressure.
The second goal eventually arrived with five minutes remaining when Alex Baena produced a spectacular free-kick, bending the ball over the wall and into the net via the underside of the crossbar.
The victory gives Atletico a positive start as they look to improve on their fourth-place finish last season and challenge for the La Liga title they last won in 2021.
Simeone’s side will face Villarreal on Sunday, the team that finished third ahead of Atletico last season.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid and Barcelona will begin their respective La Liga campaigns this weekend, with Madrid visiting Espanyol on Saturday and Barcelona travelling to Elche on Sunday.
