Atlético manager Diego Simeone commented, “Riquelme will have to coexist with what football and society offer.”
Atlético Madrid secured a hard-fought eleventh consecutive victory, which only became possible after the introductions of Molina and Sorloth to break the deadlock.
Molina was as physically impressive as ever, though struggled with clarity in the final third, lacking precision in his passes. FINAL RATING: 5
He won nearly all aerial duels against Álvaro, stifling Getafe’s second chances. FINAL RATING: 7
Remaining consistent in seriousness and composure, he was also reliable in initiating plays with his strong foot. FINAL RATING: 7
Molina made several good runs to the byline but failed to convert beyond a well-placed cross to Giuliano, showing great composure in his defensive duties. FINAL RATING: 6
In addition to his usual tenacity in defending his flank, he ventured into the box, providing two excellent passes to Lino and De Paul and nodding another chance wide in the first half. He was more erratic after the break. FINAL RATING: 5
He was undoubtedly the standout player in the first half, maintaining the fine form he has shown over the last two months. His passes were the foundation for almost all the best chances created. FINAL RATING: 8
His involvement was less consistent compared to recent outings, but when he engaged, the team benefitted. He improved in the second half, stepping up and even entering the opposition’s area. FINAL RATING: 7
Despite being diligent, he was ineffective in front of goal, missing two clear-cut chances without getting a shot on target. He was active but inaccurate. FINAL RATING: 5
He struggled to find consistency, but with each appearance, he demonstrated his quality as a player. FINAL RATING: 6
He was less involved this time and did not produce the brilliance needed to elevate his performance, visibly showing signs of fatigue. FINAL RATING: 5
Taking on the role of a striker, he made a classic run to position himself for a well-executed header, following the rules of the game, which led to the opening goal. He disrupted the comfort zone enjoyed by the blue-and-black defenders. FINAL RATING: 9
He was tenacious, troubling the defense but failed to secure the much-needed second goal after a relentless effort that left him exhausted. FINAL RATING: 5
Returning as a world champion full-back, few defenders have as much attacking impact. His cross for Sorloth to score the opening goal should be played on a loop in football academies—perfectly executed from his ‘home’ area, right into the path of the striker, unreachable for all defenders. FINAL RATING: 9
Even if not starting, his minutes on the pitch are invaluable. He brought composure and control that allowed Barrios to move forward. FINAL RATING: 7
Beyond just returning to play at the Metropolitano, he did not hesitate to put his head down and help secure the victory. FINAL RATING: 5
Simeone relied on the same squad that defeated Slovan but made decisive substitutions that changed the dynamics of the game, completely altering the right flank from which the victory was forged.
