Champions League opener: Atletico Madrid snatches last-minute win against RB Leipzig
Atletico Madrid edged past RB Leipzig with a 2-1 victory in their Champions League opener, thanks to a last-minute header from defender Jose Maria Gimenez. The thrilling encounter saw Atletico dominate possession and chances, but they struggled to break down a resilient Leipzig side until the final moments.
Leipzig took an early lead in the fourth minute when Benjamin Sesko headed home after a swift counter-attack, catching the Spanish side off guard.
However, Atletico soon found their rhythm, and Antoine Griezmann leveled the match in the 28th minute with a stunning volley into the top corner.
Despite Atletico’s overwhelming control, recording 20 attempts on goal, they had to wait until the 90th minute to seal the win.
Griezmann, instrumental throughout, delivered a pinpoint cross for Gimenez, who rose to head the winner past Leipzig’s goalkeeper.
Griezmann’s influence on the match was undeniable, contributing both a goal and an assist.
He also created three key chances, won all his aerial duels, and recovered possession eight times, cementing his status as Atletico’s driving force.
With his goal, Griezmann equaled Sergio Aguero and Alessandro Del Piero for the most home goals in the Champions League, with 26 of his 37 strikes coming on Spanish soil.
Meanwhile, Leipzig’s defeat extended their winless run in the Champions League to three matches, their longest drought since a six-game spell in 2021.
