News
FRI 29.07.2016
Atletico Madrid struck the perfect balance they were looking for in their LaLiga World curtain-raiser in Melbourne: a Spanish win, a Uruguayan goal and Australian joy. The LaLiga side's win over Tottenham Hotspur confirmed that Atletico Madrid are very much at home in the LaLiga World programme and in Australia.
It was a hard-fought match against tough opposition, but Atletico Madrid, true to their style, ran out winners in their opening LaLiga World fixture. "The way we interpret the game is to always play with the same passion and enthusiasm, whether it's a friendly or not," said Diego Simeone during his post-match press conference. Atletico suffered two early scares as Tottenham twice hit the woodwork to give them a timely wake-up call, but Simeone's charges quickly found their rhythm before breaking the deadlock on the stroke of half-time. Once again from a set-piece, and once again Diego Godin, who pounced on a loose ball inside the area following a free-kick to score the first and only goal of the game. Atletico's trademark move was also the order of the day in Australia.
The Rojiblancos could have extended their lead in the second half, especially after Simeone brought on several academy players who took full advantage of their chance to shine. Despite some impressive performances, it was Jan Oblak who was named Man of the Match. The Slovene made two impressive interventions to keep yet another clean sheet. "Oblak is one of the best keepers in the world. He's started the season in the same form he's always shown for us, world-class form," said Simeone of Oblak when he spoke with the media.
An expectant and eager Australian crowd turned out to watch this clash of European giants. There was a big-game atmosphere at Melbourne's MCG and fans got behind the two teams throughout the 90 minutes, even providing a Mexican wave towards the final whistle, thanking both teams for the outstanding game of football they had seen.
Fans at the @MCG enjoying @atletienglish's game v Spurs. #LaLigaWorld https://t.co/tVrPd11nXi
— LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) July 29, 2016
Atletico Madrid will train at Melbourne's AAMI Park on Saturday in preparation for their second and final LaLiga World game against Melbourne Victory on Sunday, which will bring their Australian tour to an end.
© LALIGA - 2016
