Atlético's substitute army overwhelms Sevilla: Simeone's tactical genius on full display in emphatic 3-0 victory
Worth Watching Futmetrix Score: 59/100. When your bench scores three goals in 28 minutes, it's not luck—it's Simeone's blueprint for tactical domination.
The Intensity of Offensive Reinvention
The Atlético Madrid entered halftime searching for answers, but Simeone executed a surgical transformation from the touchline. The introduction of Thiago Almada in the 68th minute became the pivot point: the Argentine midfielder didn't merely score in the 77th and assist Antoine Griezmann in the 90th—he injected an Intensity that Sevilla could never neutralize. Almada's 8.3 rating, complete with a goal and assist, transformed an equilibrium-seeking match into tactical execution theater.
Before that, Julián Álvarez shattered the Balance from the penalty spot in the 64th minute, following VAR confirmation in the 62nd. Three minutes later came Almada's finishing touch. Griezmann sealed it in stoppage time with another Almada assist. No chaos here—pure, clinical precision.
Sevilla, riding three consecutive defeats into this fixture, arrived toothless. Their 10 shots screamed desperation, not danger. Jan Oblak required only two interventions to preserve the clean sheet, cementing his status as La Liga's premier shot-stopper. Sevilla's 0.46 xG was a brutal indictment of their impotence.
This victory underscores the Stakes of Atlético's title ambitions. Six wins in eleven games, a miserly defense (10 goals conceded), and now proof that their substitutes pack lethal firepower. Sevilla, meanwhile, sinks deeper into the table with 13 points and a backline that couldn't withstand the onslaught. The gulf between fourth and 13th place has never looked wider.
Key Questions
How did substitute Thiago Almada change the game?
Almada entered in the 68th, scored in the 77th, then assisted Griezmann's closer. His offensive energy broke Sevilla's resolve entirely.
What was VAR's impact on the scoreline?
VAR confirmed a penalty in the 62nd. Álvarez converted it in the 64th, unlocking Atlético's offensive floodgates.
How dominant was Atlético's defense?
Oblak barely worked (2 saves). Sevilla generated minimal threat with 10 shots and 0.46 xG. Complete defensive control.
Why is this match rated 59/100?
Our Futmetrix algorithm analyzed intensity, balance, and stakes. The final score of 59/100 places this match in the "Worth Watching" category.
