Atlético Overcomes Opening Rout to Assert Dominance Against Seattle | OneFootball

After the thrashing in their debut against PSG, Atlético de Madrid responded with a secure victory, despite some defensive slips: 3-1 over Seattle Sounders.

The Colchoneros now have the same three points as Botafogo and PSG, who are yet to play this round. To wrap up the group, the Rojiblancos will decide their spot in the last sixteen against the team from Rio.

Atlético Presses from the Start

Atlético de Madrid entered the game recharged. They didn't seem affected by the heavy loss in their debut and immediately went on the offensive against Seattle Sounders, pinning the opponent back in their defensive half in the opening minutes.

The first major goal opportunity was by Julián Álvarez, after a fine play through the middle. The striker evaded his marker and faced Frei one-on-one, but his shot was too wide, hitting the post.

That wasn't the only major chance wasted, quite the contrary... But before we get into that, let's talk about the goal that opened the scoring. Giuliano Simeone sped down the right, shook off his marker, and passed to Barrios who struck it hard. The ball even hit the crossbar before going in.

Since then, Atleti continued to dominate the game, and only didn't secure a more comfortable lead due to Sorloth. First, the Norwegian received a lofted ball in the area, controlled it, and, from close range, missed an incredible goal. Shortly after, Sorloth found himself one-on-one with Frei and practically passed it back to the goalkeeper.

Seattle grew into the game over the first half and became a dangerous team. With Musovski, who was stopped by Oblak in a good chance in the box, and also with Bell, who struck powerfully with his left foot in the box and was also denied by the keeper. Close to halftime, after the referee reversed a penalty decision he had initially made, Baker still threatened with a long-range shot, leaving the impression that nothing was settled.

Second Half Ignites

The second half started with a bang. Right from the first attack, Llorente unleashed a powerful shot from distance, the ball hit the crossbar and Le Normand, on the rebound, set it up for Axel Witsel, who had just come on, to push it into the net.

But Seattle's response was also swift. Vargas sent it into the box, Musovski adjusted it and Rusnák was there to finish it off into the net. All square, and the game wide open.

However, the Americans faltered on a throw-in into the area. The ball came from the right, passed everyone and fell to Barrios, the man of the match, who made it 3-1 for the Colchoneros.

Atleti seemed eager for more, and Julián came close with a strike that hit the crossbar. But in the end, it was Seattle who pressed for a second goal. Nevertheless, the score remained 3-1 until the final whistle.