Atlético Madrid win 1-0 against Deportivo at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

The LaLiga clash between Atlético Madrid and Deportivo unfolded on 24 October 2026 at the newly-opened Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid. Both sides entered the match looking to add three points, but the home side soon established control in front of their supporters.

How it unfolded

The first half was tightly contested, with few clear chances. The game’s first notable incident came in the 26th minute when Atlético’s Marc Pubill was shown a yellow card for a bad foul, a reminder that the contest would be physical.

The deadlock was broken shortly after the interval. In the 48th minute Julián Álvarez received a pinpoint pass from Alejandro Grimaldo and fired a right-footed shot from very close range into the bottom right corner, giving Atlético Madrid a 1-0 lead. The goal came early in the second half and forced Deportivo to chase the game.

Deportivo’s response was hampered by discipline. In the 75th minute Yeremay Hernández received a yellow card for a bad foul, followed four minutes later by Giacomo Quagliata, also booked for a bad foul. The two cautions reflected the pressure the visitors were under as they tried to create scoring opportunities.

Atlético Madrid’s own discipline slipped in the closing stages. Alexander Sørloth was booked in the 85th minute, Álex Baena received a yellow for a bad foul in the 86th minute, and Giuliano Simeone was cautioned a minute later in the 87th minute. Despite the flurry of bookings, the score remained unchanged and Atlético held on for the win.

Standout performers

Julián Álvarez was the decisive figure, scoring the only goal of the match after a well-timed assist from Alejandro Grimaldo. Grimaldo’s contribution in setting up the strike was instrumental in breaking the deadlock.

Match facts

  • Final score: Atlético Madrid 1-0 Deportivo
  • Scorers: Julián Álvarez (48’) – assist by Alejandro Grimaldo
  • Bookings:
    • Marc Pubill (Atlético Madrid) – 26’ (bad foul)
    • Yeremay Hernández (Deportivo) – 75’ (bad foul)
    • Giacomo Quagliata (Deportivo) – 79’ (bad foul)
    • Alexander Sørloth (Atlético Madrid) – 85’
    • Álex Baena (Atlético Madrid) – 86’ (bad foul)
    • Giuliano Simeone (Atlético Madrid) – 87’
  • Venue: Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Madrid

What it means

The victory gives Atlético Madrid three points from the LaLiga encounter, while Deportivo return to the bench having failed to find the net despite periods of pressure. Both teams will look to build on the aspects highlighted by the match as the season progresses.