In the 90th minute thriller: Atletico thwarts RB Leipzig's comeback attempt
In a rather disappointing turn of events, Bundesliga team RB Leipzig fell short in their Champions League debut, losing 2:1 (1:1) to Atletico Madrid. Despite taking an early lead, they suffered their first defeat of the season, potentially hindering their progress in the tournament's knockout stages.
Atletico's Antoine Griezmann (28') and Jose Maria Gimenez (90') found the net, while Benjamin Sesko (4') scored for Leipzig. The next two home games against Juventus Turin (2 October) and FC Liverpool (23 October) promise to be challenging for the two-time DFB Cup champions, as they fight to secure one of the top eight spots that directly advance to the round of 16 in the new league system.
Marco Rose, Leipzig's coach, had cautioned about Atletico's speed on the wings before the match, a strategy he revealed a day later. Rose surprisingly switched from a three-man to a four-man defense, with Norwegian talent Antonio Nusa and Xavi Simons leading the attack. In the midfield, Atletico loanee Arthur Vermeeren replaced the injured Kevin Kampl.
Although the strategy initially proved effective against Atletico, who had strengthened their squad for €185 million, Leipzig's performance faltered in the latter stages. An Atletico attack led to Sesko driving the ball through midfield and setting up Lois Openda for a shot, which was saved by the goalkeeper. However, Sesko managed to head in the rebound, giving Leipzig a brief lead.
However, Atletico recovered and dominated the game, putting Leipzig under intense pressure. Just after Leipzig captain Willi Orban cleared the ball to prevent a goal, Angel Correa hit the post from a quick corner. Leipzig lost control of the game and suffered a setback when Griezmann scored a beautiful volley.
Atletico remained dominant in the second half, while Leipzig failed to create many chances. Both teams showed a lack of urgency, with few clear opportunities arising. Atletico brought on a target man, Alexander Sørloth, in the final stages, while Leipzig attempted to build pressure. Xavi missed a close-range shot, and Yussuf Poulsen headed just wide in the 77th minute. In the final minute, Gimenez scored the winner, and the Metropolitano Stadium erupted in celebration.
Despite the challenging matches against Juventus Turin and FC Liverpool upcoming, Leipzig's Champions League journey continues, with their next fixture being against these two formidable opponents. Regardless of the setback against Atletico Madrid, the Champions League remains a significant opportunity for Leipzig to showcase their skills and potential in the international arena.
Following their debut loss, Leipzig will need to strategize effectively for their upcoming Champions League matches, aiming to secure one of the top eight spots and advance to the round of 16 in the new league system.
