Atletico Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in a friendly match in Seoul, South Korea. The kickoff was delayed due to heavy rainfall but once the match started, it was an intense and lively contest. In the first half, City dominated possession and had several chances, including Kyle Walker hitting the crossbar and Mateo Kovacic going close. However, it was Atletico who took the lead with two fabulous goals from Memphis Depay and Yannick Carrasco in the second half. Ruben Dias pulled one back for City with a late header, but they were unable to find an equalizer.
Both teams fielded strong lineups, with City featuring new signing Jack Grealish and striker Erling Haaland. Atletico made wholesale changes during the match, which proved to be a winning tactic as their substitutes made a significant impact. Samuel Lino, a relatively unknown player, impressed in the first half and created several chances for Atletico.
The match was not without its feisty moments, with both teams showing a competitive spirit. There were yellow cards shown to players from both sides for fouls and robust tackles. The animosity between the two teams was evident throughout the game.
The victory for Atletico is a positive start to their preseason preparations. As reigning champions, City will be drawn from pot one for the Champions League group stage draw, while Atletico’s pot is yet to be determined. The two teams previously met in a feisty quarterfinal in 2022, and it seems that the rivalry and intensity between them remain.
Overall, it was an entertaining match with impressive goals and strong performances from both sides. City will be looking to regroup and prepare for their upcoming Community Shield showdown with Arsenal, while Atletico will take confidence from their victory as they continue their preseason preparations.
