Just like Bayern, Atlético Madrid ran out 1-0 victors in their final match before the sides’ Champions League encounter. On Sunday afternoon, Los Rojiblancos narrowly emerged victorious against Deportivo La Coruña thanks to a goal from Antoine Griezmann (69th minute). Diego Simeone’s side are unbeaten in the league and have now climbed to third place with three wins and three draws. They are two points behind neighbours and table-toppers Real Madrid.
In front of 45,653 fans at the Vicente Calderón, Atlético struggled for long periods against the side 13th in the table. In a match lacking in action, the home side were given an advantage when Deportivo’s Fayçal Fajr received a second yellow card in first-half injury time. Griezmann was the decisive factor in the match with his fifth goal of the campaign.
Cruciate and adductor injuries
“Antoine is in spectacular form,” said Koke after the game in recognition of his teammate. Someone spoke about a “hard, intense game with good rhythm in the second half.” The Atlético coach was already taking care of Stefan Savic, Kevin Gameiro and Saul Niguez but also had two more injuries to worry about after the game: Augusto Fernández suffered a cruciate ligament injury in the 19th minute and will be out for the match on Wednesday. José Maria Gimenez is also doubtful after being substituted in the 36th minute with an adductor injury.
“We know that it will be a difficult game,” said Koke looking forward to the match against Bayern, “but we want to get through the group. That’s why we have to play very well on Wednesday and win.”
Atlético’s line-up against Deportivo:
Oblak - Juanfran, Giménez (36’ Lucas), Godín, Filipe Luis - Augusto (19’ Gabi), Koke, Carrasco (59’ Gameiro), Gaitán - Correa, Griezmann
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