Lee Kang-in was substituted in the 58th minute as his team, Atletico Madrid, fell to a 3-0 defeat against Athletic Bilbao. This marks Atletico’s first loss of the season and their first match without scoring, dropping their season record to two wins, one draw, and one loss. The game took place on October 5th at the Estadio de San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain.
Match Overview and Lee Kang-in’s Role
Atletico Madrid, managed by Diego Simeone, lined up in a 4-4-2 formation. Lee Kang-in started for the third consecutive match, deployed in a defensive role alongside Alex Baena in midfield. Earlier in the season, Lee had garnered praise in Spain as part of a ‘genius quartet’ alongside Baena, Adama Lluukman, and Moisés. His role, however, often sees him operating with significant freedom, akin to a ‘false nine,’ driving the team’s attack.
From the outset, Lee Kang-in showed attacking intent. In the 3rd minute, he skillfully navigated past defenders on the right flank, creating space for a shot. His left-footed attempt struck the post, a near miss that left even manager Simeone visibly frustrated.
Atletico Madrid had several opportunities to break the deadlock in the first half. In the 23rd minute, Lee Kang-in drew defenders before laying off a precise pass to Baena, whose shot was saved by the goalkeeper. During the cooling break, Simeone was seen giving specific instructions to Lee.
Despite the early chances and Lee’s active involvement, Atletico struggled to find the back of the net. Lee received a yellow card in the 38th minute after a strong challenge following a first-touch error. Later, in the 40th minute, he attempted a shot from the left after cutting inside from the right, but it was blocked for a corner.
The first half concluded without any goals, despite the added three minutes of stoppage time.
Second Half Collapse and Tactical Changes
The complexion of the match changed dramatically at the start of the second half. Athletic Bilbao scored in the 48th minute when Iñaki Williams’ shot from the right side of the box deflected off Axel Witsel and fell to his brother, Nico Williams, who headed it into the net. This opening goal came just moments after the restart.
Atletico’s defense conceded a second goal just two minutes later, in the 50th minute. Following a quick turnover after kick-off, Julián had the ball taken from him by Nico Williams, who passed it to the right side of the box. Roberto Navarro then skillfully evaded Grimaldo with a touch before finding the back of the net.
Facing a two-goal deficit, Atletico Madrid’s bench became active. In the 58th minute, Simeone made a significant substitution, bringing on four players at once: Koke, Álvaro Djaló, Cristian Romero, and Arnau Martínez, replacing Lluís Milla, Adama Lluukman, Moisés, and Lee Kang-in. This marked an early exit for Lee, who had received a yellow card earlier in the match.
Cristian Romero made his debut for Atletico Madrid in this game. Álvaro Djaló, who joined from Barcelona, nearly scored late in the match. In the 71st minute, he controlled the ball well inside the box and attempted a turning shot, but it went slightly centrally and was saved by goalkeeper Unai Simón.
Frustrating Attack and Final Blow
Atletico’s offensive struggles continued. Their build-up play often involved circulating the ball without penetrating the opponent’s defense, a pattern that seemed to be exacerbated by Lee Kang-in’s early substitution. In contrast, Athletic Bilbao managed the game effectively, scoring a third goal in the 80th minute during a counter-attack.
The move originated with Beñat Prados finding space behind the defense. His low cross into the box deflected off a defender and rolled behind. Oihan Sancet calmly slotted it home, making the score 3-0.
The match ended with Athletic Bilbao securing a decisive 3-0 victory. Atletico Madrid failed to score a single goal, and Álvaro Djaló’s late effort was their closest chance to getting on the score sheet. The team’s inability to find the net and the early substitution of key attacking players like Lee Kang-in highlighted their offensive challenges in this fixture.
Looking Ahead
This defeat leaves Atletico Madrid with much to consider as they aim to maintain their strong start to the season. The team will need to address their offensive inefficiencies and defensive lapses to avoid similar results in future matches. The performance against Athletic Bilbao serves as a stark reminder of the competitive nature of the league and the importance of consistent attacking threat and defensive solidity.
