Atlético Madrid – Eintracht Frankfurt: Five-Star Atlético Cruise to Dominant Champions League Victory (5-1)

Atlético Madrid put a frustrating start to their European campaign firmly behind them with a commanding 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. The hosts, led by a brilliant performance from Julián Álvarez, were clinical in attack and showcased a breadth of attacking options, a stark contrast to their previous Champions League fixture. The result moves both teams to a win and a loss in the group stage.

Tactical analysis and match report by Aderemi Qoyum.

Following a heartbreaking defeat in their Champions League opener against Liverpool, Diego Simeone's Atlético Madrid bounced back in spectacular fashion. Their performance was a statement of intent, demonstrating a renewed sense of purpose and attacking prowess that was also on display in their recent 5-2 La Liga demolition of Real Madrid. Julián Álvarez was at the heart of everything good for Los Rojiblancos, racking up a goal and two assists. Antoine Griezmann, celebrating his 200th goal for the club, also found the back of the net, as did Giacomo Raspadori, Robin Le Normand, and Giuliano Simeone.

Eintracht Frankfurt, fresh off a 5-1 victory of their own against Galatasaray in their first group-stage match, struggled to contain the relentless Atlético attack. Their lone goal, scored by Jonathan Burkardt, was a small consolation on a night dominated by the home side.

Diego Simeone, serving a touchline ban, watched from the stands as his team lined up in a 4-4-2 formation: Jan Oblak © in goal; a backline of Marcos Llorente, Robin Le Normand, Clément Lenglet, and Marco Ruggeri; a midfield four of Giacomo Raspadori on the left, Pablo Barrios, Conor . . .