Atlético de Madrid achieved an important 0-3 victory against Valencia at Mestalla, a triumph that reaffirms their candidacy for the top of LaLiga. However, despite the red-and-white dominance, Kiko Narváez offered a reflection that many fans share after the match.
A Serious and Effective Atlético de Madrid at Mestalla
The team led by Diego Simeone played a solid match with moments of brilliance, especially in the first half. Antoine Griezmann and Julián were the protagonists of the 0-2 at halftime, once again showing their quality and ability to make a difference.
However, the former red-and-white forward Kiko Narváez, analyzing the match, pointed out an aspect that could have changed the course of the game. "A pity the last play by 'La Araña' (Julián), which would have already settled the match with a three-goal advantage," stated Kiko. For the former Atlético player, that goal would have sealed the match.
Kiko and the Deceptive 0-2: "A Goal Changes Everything"
Atlético de Madrid went to the locker room with a two-goal lead, but Kiko warned that these types of scores can be dangerous. "Although anyone would sign for a 0-2, that result is deceptive. In any isolated play, a goal means a morale boost for the forty-five thousand fans at Mestalla," explained the former forward.
Indeed, in the second half, Valencia began to create danger, especially on the left wing. Atlético de Madrid's substitutions in that sector didn't help and even complicated more than they solved.
Simeone Adjusted and Correa Sealed the Deal
Cholo Simeone, seeing the team's defensive problems, reacted with a key tactical change: he brought in José María Giménez as a third center-back, which restored control to Atlético. From that moment, the red-and-white team regained control of the match until, in a recovery by Gallagher, Ángel Correa scored the definitive 0-3, securing the victory.
Beyond the triumph, Kiko Narváez left an important reflection for Atlético de Madrid's upcoming matches. The exciting performance of Marcos Llorente in the midfield, where he managed possession and position well.