Chapter 90
As Atlético returned from Monaco with the UEFA Super Cup trophy, La Liga's second round had already concluded.
Overall, the second round showed significant improvement compared to the opening matches, particularly among the strong teams expected to perform well.
Carlo Ancelotti's Valencia finally found their footing. In an away match against Emery's Almería, David Villa's crucial goal in the final moments helped the Bats secure a 2–1 victory despite a brief equalizer by the hosts.
Mourinho's Barcelona delivered a 3–1 win at home against Athletic Bilbao, thanks to Ronaldinho's brace and a goal from Tevez.
Wenger's Real Madrid produced a spectacular 5–2 away victory against Villarreal. Cristiano Ronaldo netted twice, while Ibrahimović, Yaya Touré, and Raúl each added a goal, sealing a commanding win for Los Blancos.
However, Deschamps' Deportivo La Coruña managed only a 2–2 draw against Valladolid. The newly promoted side displayed remarkable resilience at home, pulling off a minor upset.
With two rounds completed, Atlético, having played one game less, sat in seventh place in the league table. Interestingly, no team had managed to secure two consecutive wins in the first two rounds.
The chaotic opening weekend saw almost all the top teams stumble dramatically.
According to the intelligence Yang Hao received, the matches highlighted for global live broadcasts this round were Villarreal vs. Real Madrid and Barcelona vs. Athletic Bilbao. Both games lived up to the hype, delivering spectacular football.
In particular, the clash between Villarreal and Real Madrid, which saw seven goals, was a thrilling showcase of attacking football. Villarreal demonstrated they weren't far behind Los Blancos in quality, with individual brilliance being the deciding factor.
After falling three goals behind, Villarreal roared back with two quick strikes from young stars Agüero and Giuseppe Rossi, nearly equalizing the match. However, Cristiano Ronaldo's sensational solo effort late in the game restored Real's two-goal advantage, and Raúl's substitute goal added the finishing touch.
The match received widespread acclaim from fans and media worldwide, with many hailing it as an early season classic.
________________________________________
A Break for International Duty
After the second round, La Liga paused for two weeks of international fixtures.
Spain had two matches scheduled in September: an away game against Iceland and a home match against Latvia.
Yang Hao maintained his usual approach to national team selection, making adjustments based on player fitness. For instance, Carles Puyol was sidelined with an injury and could not be called up. Valencia's Raúl Albiol was summoned to fill the gap, marking his first inclusion in the national squad.
For the first time, Valencia boasted more national team players than Real Madrid and Barcelona, reflecting their growing prominence.
However, Spain's core structure remained unchanged. After a year of consistent friendlies and European Championship qualifiers, the squad's tactics and lineup had largely stabilized. Unless significant injuries or unforeseen circumstances arose, Yang Hao saw no reason for drastic changes.
This stability underscored the key difference between managing a club and a national team.
At the club level, players trained and played together daily, allowing for tactical adjustments to be implemented with relative ease.
In the national team, however, players convened only for matches, with limited time for training, most of which was spent on recovery and preparation. This made tactical overhauls far more challenging.
For Spain, Yang Hao focused on refining a mature and stable playing style. Once the team was comfortable and well-drilled, he planned to introduce alternative tactics as a backup strategy.
With so many Atlético players in the squad, Yang Hao was confident even a "Plan B" would work seamlessly.
________________________________________
A Rainy Challenge in Iceland
Yang Hao first led the team to a training camp in Madrid, focusing on recovery and light preparation.
In the away match against Iceland, Spain faced familiar challenges.
September in Iceland was chilly, compounded by strong winds and heavy rain, conditions that unsettled the Spanish players.
Iceland employed a deep defensive block and counterattacking strategy, frustrating Spain's efforts.
Despite the difficult conditions, Spain secured a 2–0 victory. Xabi Alonso opened the scoring with a long-range strike, and substitute Andrés Iniesta added a second goal in the second half.
Iniesta had been running a fever since arriving in Iceland, prompting Yang Hao to initially exclude him from the lineup. However, with only 20 players in the squad, Iniesta insisted on playing and ultimately delivered the decisive second goal.
________________________________________
Dominance Against Latvia
Returning to Madrid, the team rested for two days before traveling to Valencia to face Latvia at the Mestalla. A win in this match would nearly guarantee Spain's qualification for the European Championship finals.
To ease the pressure, Yang Hao implemented a media blackout, barring journalists from accessing the training camp or interviewing players.
This move sparked protests from Spanish media outlets, with some tabloids labeling Yang Hao a "tyrant."
Unbothered, Yang Hao ignored the noise, focusing on his team.
Spain responded with a dazzling 6–0 victory over Latvia.
In the first 60 minutes, Spain played at an electrifying tempo. The attacking trio of Villa, Torres, and Reyes combined individual brilliance with fluid teamwork, while the midfield trio of Iniesta, Xabi Alonso, and Xavi controlled possession and dictated the game.
Latvia managed just 33% possession and a single shot during this period as Spain dominated.
By the hour mark, Spain had scored five goals through Xavi, Torres, Villa, Reyes, and Pepe.
Post-match headlines in ABC hailed Spain's attack as "flowers blooming everywhere," praising the team's offensive diversity.
In the final 30 minutes, Yang Hao made substitutions and shifted to a more conservative, possession-based approach. Spain's possession soared to 73%, leaving Latvia chasing shadows.
The emphatic victory at the Mestalla solidified Spain's position and drew widespread acclaim from fans and media alike.
________________________________________
Silencing the Critics
Yang Hao used the opportunity to criticize the tabloids that had labeled him a "tyrant," urging the media to support the national team's objectives rather than fueling baseless controversies.
Over the past year, Yang Hao had transitioned from facing skepticism to earning widespread support from the Spanish Football Federation and fans. His progress starkly contrasted with the challenges faced by Luis Aragonés in Yang Hao's previous timeline, showcasing how far Spain had come under his leadership.
In Yang Hao's previous life, Luis Aragonés' refusal to recall Raúl had led to a fractured relationship with the media. His constant experimentation with different tactics resulted in inconsistent performances from the team. By September 2007, before two key European Championship qualifying matches, Aragonés had already submitted his resignation, declaring he would not remain after the tournament. The Spanish Football Federation had quickly lined up Vicente del Bosque as his successor, with Fernando Hierro taking over as the national team director in July as a key indicator of the impending transition.
However, under Yang Hao, the landscape was drastically different.
Yang Hao commanded immense authority both at the club and national levels, ensuring he could suppress opposition and maintain control. When he implemented closed training sessions, all major media outlets—except a few tabloids—understood and supported his approach.
In contrast, Aragonés had alienated much of the Spanish media, largely due to his strong personality and his controversial decision to leave Raúl out of the squad. Aragonés himself admitted to Yang Hao that continuing in his role felt like staking everything and isolating himself in the process.
In Yang Hao's previous life, Aragonés had ultimately succeeded, becoming a hero. But in this life, Aragonés opted out of that gamble, believing Yang Hao was a better choice for the job. He chose a more comfortable path, coaching in La Liga and enjoying a quieter, lucrative career.
________________________________________
Youth Scouting at the U17 World Cup
During the two weeks of national team duties, the U17 World Cup in South Korea also concluded.
While the tournament did not capture significant attention from fans or the mainstream media, it was closely monitored within professional football circles. Clubs were eager to scout emerging talent before others could secure their signatures. Atlético Madrid sent several scouts to track the competition, as the tournament presented an opportunity to identify the next wave of young stars.
Atlético had several players participating, including Spain's David de Gea, Belgium's Eden Hazard, and Germany's Toni Kroos.
The scouting team also evaluated potential prospects from other nations. Many players at this stage, aged 17, were just a couple of years away from being first-team-ready. For top clubs and youth development-focused teams like Sevilla, these events were invaluable.
César Mendiondo and Caminero, Atlético's scouting directors, personally traveled to South Korea. Yang Hao stayed updated on their findings.
________________________________________
Promising Young Players
Belgium and Colombia failed to progress past the group stage, but some standout players emerged.
Eden Hazard: A year younger than most of his peers, Hazard showed promise but did not deliver an exceptional performance. Christian Benteke: The Belgian forward stood out as one of the most impressive players on the team. James Rodríguez: The Colombian attacking midfielder was another notable talent. Like Hazard, James was only 16 but had already secured a starting spot, showcasing his potential.
England had several promising players, including Manchester United's Danny Welbeck and Chelsea's Michael Woods.
Brazil appeared to have fewer standout talents in this tournament. However, the midfield featured a bright prospect, Alex Teixeira, and the fullback twins, Fábio and Rafael, who had already caught Manchester United's attention.
________________________________________
The Brazilian Fullback Phenomenon
Brazilian fullbacks stood out for their unique skill sets, which differentiated them from their counterparts worldwide.
While European fullbacks often prioritized balance between defense and attack, Brazilian fullbacks, such as Dani Alves and Marcelo, excelled in attacking prowess. Their ability to take on players, make incisive runs, and maintain excellent ball control made them invaluable assets.
Fábio and Rafael demonstrated similar qualities, earning high praise from Atlético's scouting team for their ball sense and technical ability.
In Yang Hao's previous life, Manchester United had signed these twins but struggled to maximize their potential. The English Premier League's emphasis on physicality and strength often clashed with the technical finesse of Brazilian players.
The rigorous training aimed at adapting Brazilian players to the Premier League—focusing on upper body strength and core power—often led to increased muscle mass at the expense of agility and fluidity, diminishing their creativity.
Yang Hao reflected on how players like Anderson, Nani, and even Cristiano Ronaldo had undergone similar transformations. While Ronaldo adapted and evolved into a physical powerhouse, his dribbling and flair diminished over time, becoming more straightforward.
Fábio and Rafael were on a similar trajectory, and Yang Hao worried they might lose their natural style in the wrong environment.
Atlético's scouts rated the twins highly, and given their relatively low transfer value of around €5 million, Yang Hao had no objections to pursuing them.
________________________________________
Argentina's Decline
If Brazil's youth pipeline appeared slightly diminished, Argentina's decline was even more pronounced.
Reviewing Argentina's squad for the tournament, Yang Hao noted that very few players had the potential to make a significant impact. The only recognizable name was Salvio, who could barely be considered a breakout talent.
This talent gap reflected a larger trend in Argentine football, with notable signs of a generational disconnect.
________________________________________
Spain at the U17 World Cup
Spain performed admirably, advancing to the final before falling to Nigeria. This result wasn't a shock, as African teams like Nigeria and Ghana historically excelled at youth tournaments due to their physical advantages.
In the final, Spain and Nigeria played to a 0–0 draw before Nigeria triumphed 3–0 in a penalty shootout. Despite the loss, Spain's performance throughout the tournament was commendable, offering glimpses of a bright future.
________________________________________
The Bigger Picture
Yang Hao viewed the U17 World Cup as a stepping stone for young players and an opportunity for Atlético to stay ahead in the talent race. While Brazil and Argentina's youth setups showed cracks, the tournament confirmed that Spain's development programs were in excellent shape, capable of producing the next generation of stars.
For Yang Hao, his focus remained on ensuring Spain's senior team continued its upward trajectory while keeping Atlético's youth recruitment pipeline well-stocked for future success.
Nigeria converted all three penalties in the shootout, while Spain missed all three of their attempts. The penalty takers—Illarramendi, Mérida, and Iago Falqué—failed to deliver, highlighting a recurring issue Yang Hao had frequently pointed out: Spanish players, across all age levels, often struggled with mental resilience in critical moments.
Spain's squad included key players like goalkeeper David de Gea and defender Nacho from Real Madrid. Other notable players were Camacho, Illarramendi, Mérida, and Bojan. Atlético Madrid's youth academy contributed five players to the team, including Dani Aquino and Iago Falqué.
Iago Falqué was particularly valued within Atlético's youth system, having joined the club in 2001. Alongside Bojan, he was one of Spain's brightest talents at the tournament.
In the U17 World Cup, Bojan scored five goals and provided one assist, earning both the Bronze Ball and Bronze Boot awards. Nigeria's Chrisantus, with seven goals and two assists, won the Silver Ball and Golden Boot, while Ghana's Osei claimed the Silver Boot with six goals and three assists.
The standout player, however, was Atlético's Toni Kroos. Representing Germany, Kroos scored five goals and delivered four assists, winning the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player and the Bronze Boot.
Germany finished third in the tournament, and Kroos' individual brilliance was pivotal. Apart from Kroos, the only other notable player in the German squad was goalkeeper Kevin Trapp, although he was not the starting keeper. This disparity underscored a broader issue within global youth football—many players at this age still awaited their chance to shine on a larger stage.
________________________________________
Yang Hao's Response
Upon returning to Atlético after national team duty, Yang Hao met with the club's youth players who had competed in South Korea. He commended their efforts and encouraged them to continue improving.
In his previous life, Dani Aquino and Iago Falqué had not achieved significant success, but Yang Hao was determined to change their trajectories. He ensured they received the support and motivation needed to envision themselves in the first team.
Toni Kroos received special attention. Yang Hao discussed his experiences in Korea, noting that Kroos had predominantly played as a traditional No. 10, with the German team built around him. Yang Hao believed this was not ideal, as modern football was moving away from the classic No. 10 role, except in formations like 4-2-3-1. Even then, the No. 10 needed to contribute significantly to the team's offensive structure—a task Kroos was not naturally suited for.
For now, Yang Hao refrained from making major tactical suggestions to Kroos, focusing instead on encouraging his continued development. He promised Kroos opportunities in the Copa del Rey to gain first-team experience, though most of his playing time would still come in Atlético's reserve team, competing in the Segunda División.
________________________________________
Atlético's Youth and Transfer Strategy
Atlético's reserve team consistently performed well in Spain's second division, often finishing in the mid-table or even challenging for promotion. However, Spanish rules prohibited reserve teams from moving up to La Liga, which limited the pathways for young players to break into the first team.
Many reserve players who couldn't secure a spot in the senior squad were sold to other clubs. Players like Toni Kroos, Iago Falqué, De Gea, and Hazard were given opportunities in cup competitions to prepare for first-team football. For Atlético, the Copa del Rey served as an invaluable platform for developing talent.
________________________________________
La Liga, Round 3
In the third round of La Liga, Real Madrid hosted Almería and secured a 3–1 victory, marking Arsène Wenger's second consecutive win. Cristiano Ronaldo, Zlatan Ibrahimović, and Gonzalo Higuaín each scored for Los Blancos.
Carlo Ancelotti's Valencia also found success at home, defeating Valladolid 2–0 with goals from Morientes and David Villa. Meanwhile, Didier Deschamps' Deportivo narrowly beat Real Betis 1–0 at home, and Villarreal triumphed 1–0 against Mallorca on the road. Sevilla delivered a commanding 4–1 win over Recreativo Huelva at home.
However, José Mourinho's Barcelona stumbled with a 0–0 draw away to Osasuna. After the match, Mourinho criticized Osasuna's aggressive style of play and the referee for not awarding Barcelona at least two penalties. He admitted that Barça's finishing needed improvement, as the team failed to capitalize on the few chances they created against Osasuna's resolute defense.
Osasuna's coach, Ziganda, responded sharply to Mourinho's comments, suggesting that the Portuguese manager should focus on his team's shortcomings instead of blaming others. Ziganda pointed out that Osasuna's defensive approach was consistent with their usual style of play.
"He should take a page out of Yang Hao's book," Ziganda added.
When Yang Hao heard this, he nearly jumped out of his seat.
"Don't drag me into this mess! I've criticized Osasuna plenty of times before—did you forget when I almost fought Pablo García?!"
Thankfully, Mourinho did not fall for Ziganda's bait and instead doubled down on criticizing Osasuna's physical approach.
________________________________________
Atlético vs. Murcia
Due to the two-week international break and an upcoming Champions League match against Lyon, Yang Hao opted for heavy rotation in Atlético's away game against Murcia.
The Lyon match was set to be the first official game at Atlético's new Emirates Stadium, with a grand opening ceremony planned. The event was expected to attract high-profile guests, including Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, other club presidents from the Madrid region, Atlético's honorary president Crown Prince Felipe, the Prime Minister, and the Mayor of Madrid.
The opening ceremony would also coincide with the groundbreaking for the Twin Towers project and the Riverside Municipal Park, making it a significant event for both the club and the city.
With so much riding on the midweek match, Yang Hao prioritized ensuring Atlético's best performance in front of the distinguished guests. As a result, the match against Murcia saw a near-complete lineup of substitutes.
Since Drogba had returned to participate in his national team matches, Yang Hao entrusted Suárez with leading the attack for this game. Within the first 15 minutes, the Uruguayan striker scored to put Atlético ahead. However, despite dominating possession afterward, Atlético failed to extend their lead.
In the 81st minute, the hosts broke through with a solo effort, resulting in a one-on-one situation and an equalizer. Technically, the goal wasn't Manuel Neuer's fault, but given the German keeper's growing reputation, he still faced post-match criticism.
The match ended in a 1–1 draw. Yang Hao, however, was unfazed by the result, recognizing the rotation choices and upcoming fixture priorities. Both the media and fans largely understood the rationale behind Atlético's lineup and accepted the draw as a reasonable outcome.
This result temporarily placed Atlético in 8th position, dropping one spot but with a game in hand. Despite being in 8th place, they were only two points behind league leaders Villarreal.
________________________________________
September 20 – The New Atlético Stadium Inauguration
On the night of September 20, Madrid was abuzz. To the south of the Royal Palace, Atlético's brand-new Emirates Stadium was illuminated and bustling with excitement.
Earlier in the afternoon, a grand groundbreaking ceremony for the nearby Twin Towers Project and the Riverside Municipal Park had attracted thousands of fans, many of whom stayed in the area until the evening festivities.
Additionally, the new El Corte Inglés Food Hall, adjacent to the stadium, officially opened its doors. This venue featured global culinary brands, gourmet food stores, and renowned chef-led restaurants. Even during its trial phase, it had drawn large crowds. Tonight, it was packed with fans enjoying the atmosphere before the match.
The Emirates Stadium's infrastructure catered to fans' entertainment needs, offering food, drinks, and leisure activities to keep supporters engaged all day.
Outside the stadium, large screens were set up between the two headquarters buildings. Fans who couldn't get a ticket gathered in the plaza to watch Atlético's first Champions League match of the season. Before the game, the screens displayed promotional footage highlighting the stadium's modern design and cutting-edge technology.
Inside the stadium, a brief yet grand inauguration ceremony unfolded. Performances by famous Spanish bands, singers, and large-scale dance groups entertained the 76,500 attendees.
The centerpiece of the ceremony was the official unveiling of the stadium. Atlético's chairman Enrique Cerezo, CEO Miguel Gil, Crown Prince Felipe, Prime Minister Zapatero, and Madrid Mayor Gallardón collectively flipped the switch to light up the stadium.
The stadium erupted in deafening cheers. While 76,500 fans celebrated inside, over 10,000 gathered in the plaza outside, and countless others followed along across Madrid and Spain.
A Historic Moment
The evening was hosted by renowned broadcaster José Ramón de la Morena, who praised the Emirates Stadium as the most technologically advanced and aesthetically stunning football stadium in Spain—and possibly the world.
"I feel immense pride for Atlético, a club that now boasts such a magnificent stadium," he declared.
His words drew thunderous applause and cheers, both inside and outside the stadium.
Chairman Enrique Cerezo then delivered a speech, reflecting on Atlético's progress in recent years and the immense effort behind the stadium's construction. He expressed gratitude to fans, sponsors, and partners who had supported the project.
Cerezo also highlighted a recent report by BBDO, one of the world's largest advertising and marketing firms, which ranked Atlético Madrid as the most valuable football brand in Europe.
Global Recognition for Atlético
According to the report, Atlético's brand value was estimated at €1.2 billion, surpassing second-placed Real Madrid (€1 billion) by €200 million. Barcelona ranked third at €950 million, with Manchester United in fourth at €920 million.
Seven La Liga teams, including Atlético, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Sevilla, Villarreal, and Deportivo La Coruña, were in the top 20. The Premier League contributed four teams: Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal.
Cerezo proudly emphasized Atlético's achievements, citing their global sponsorships, international tours, and remarkable on-field successes as key factors behind their elite brand status. His remarks were met with wild applause from fans, whose roaring cheers reverberated through the stadium.
________________________________________
Preparing for the Big Night
Meanwhile, Yang Hao and his players were in the spacious, state-of-the-art locker room, making final preparations for the match.
"This game is special," Yang Hao began. "It's our first official match in this magnificent new stadium. It's the first night in our new home."
The players, all aware of the historical significance, felt the weight of responsibility. Most of them had grown up with the club and understood what this night meant for Atlético and its supporters.
"We're facing a strong opponent tonight in Lyon. But no matter what happens, this game will be remembered by every Atlético fan," Yang Hao said.
"I want us to show the world what Atlético's football means on this special occasion!"
With that, Yang Hao sent his players onto the field one by one, their resolve firm as they stepped into the electric atmosphere of the Emirates Stadium.
________________________________________
The Match Against Lyon
Lyon, managed by Alain Perrin, fielded a 4-3-3 formation:
Goalkeeper: Vercoutre Defenders: Réveillère, Squillaci, Bodmer, Clerc Midfielders: Toulalan (holding), Juninho Pernambucano, Källström Forwards: Ben Arfa, Benzema, Govou
Yang Hao responded with his own 4-3-3 setup:
Goalkeeper: Neuer Defense: Evra, Ramos, Pepe, Alves Midfield: Xabi Alonso as the holding midfielder, Iniesta, and Kaká in central roles Forwards: Robben, Torres, and Messi
On the bench were players like Baraja, Drogba, and David Silva, ready to make an impact if needed.
This match carried special significance. With 76,500 fans inside the stadium, occupants in 255 VIP suites, and more than 10,000 fans gathered outside, the atmosphere was electric. Under the roar of the crowd, referee Massimo Busacca blew the whistle, signaling the beginning of Atlético's first official game at their new home.
As the match began, Benzema passed the ball to a teammate before it was quickly sent back to defensive midfielder Toulalan. Atlético's front three immediately pressed forward, forcing Toulalan to pass back under pressure.
"Atlético has shown their aggressive intent right from the start."
"Tonight is special for them, and the players are visibly more energized."
"This new Emirates Stadium has a phenomenal atmosphere, and the quality of the pitch seems exceptional."
"According to official reports, everything about this stadium, from the facilities to the turf, was designed to meet world-class standards."
"The tempo of the game is already quite high."
Lyon attempted a long pass toward Benzema, but Ramos cleared it with a commanding header. Atlético's midfield maintained possession with quick one-touch passes, leaving Lyon scrambling to defend. Xabi Alonso recognized the overly rapid pace and signaled for his teammates to calm down and maintain control.
Lyon's defense was well-organized. Atlético initially focused their attacks on the right flank, relying on Kaká, Messi, and Alves to break through. However, Lyon had heavily reinforced this area, immediately doubling up on both Messi and Kaká whenever they received the ball.
At the 3-minute mark, Messi tried to dribble between two defenders and cut inside but opted to pass back to Alves on the wing. The persistent tracking of Lyon's Ben Arfa resulted in a clean sliding tackle that sent the ball out for a throw-in.
Atlético continued to pile resources into attacking down the right. On the sidelines, Yang Hao watched the game with a composed demeanor, showing no signs of urgency. As the coach, his role was to remain calm and exude confidence.
Benzema's Talent on Display
Yang Hao's attention frequently turned to Benzema. The French striker's movement off the ball, hold-up play, and natural ability stood out, showing flashes of his immense potential. Yang Hao, a former Real Madrid fan in his previous life, couldn't help but reflect on how Benzema's development had been hindered in his prime years.
Regardless, Benzema had achieved extraordinary success at Madrid, reaching heights most players could only dream of. Watching this young version of Benzema now, Yang Hao felt a strange mixture of nostalgia and amusement.
Lyon's defensive organization, led by Alain Perrin, was commendable. Despite Atlético's relentless attacks, Lyon effectively nullified their efforts in the early minutes. Messi and Kaká's attempts to exploit the half-spaces and right wing were repeatedly foiled, showcasing Lyon's meticulous preparation for this match.
The Breakthrough
In the 11th minute, Atlético switched gears after earning a throw-in on the right. Alves quickly threw the ball to Kaká, who chest-controlled it before lobbing a pass back to Pepe. The ball eventually reached Xabi Alonso, who turned smoothly and launched a pinpoint long ball toward the left side of Lyon's penalty area.
Robben shielded the ball from Réveillère, chased it down, and executed a quick stop to protect possession. He dribbled horizontally, drawing defenders before passing back to Iniesta.
With the ball, Iniesta advanced, cleverly pulling Lyon's defense out of position. At that moment, Evra surged down the left wing with blistering speed, overlapping without needing a call.
Iniesta delivered a perfectly weighted pass into Evra's path. Although slightly heavy, Evra accelerated to catch up, bypassed the onrushing Réveillère, and reached the left side of the box. Without breaking stride, he whipped in a low cross to the near post.
Torres, who had been positioned at the edge of the box moments earlier, used his explosiveness to dart past Squillaci and Bodmer. Throwing himself forward, he executed a sliding shot with his right foot, sending the ball into the bottom-left corner of the net.
Lyon goalkeeper Vercoutre reacted too late, unable to stop the effort. Torres himself slid into the net after his decisive finish.
"GOAL!!!!!"
"Torres!!!"
"In the 11th minute, Torres breaks through Lyon's defense!"
The moment Torres scored, the Emirates Stadium erupted in euphoria. The deafening roar of 76,500 fans, combined with the cheers of over 10,000 outside the stadium, created an atmosphere akin to an earthquake. Even the night sky over Madrid seemed to shimmer with excitement.
After 11 minutes of relentless pressure, Atlético had finally breached Lyon's defense.
On the sidelines, Yang Hao clenched his fists and raised them triumphantly, shouting in celebration. His players had rewarded his faith and set the tone for an unforgettable night in their new fortress.
"Another attack down Atlético's left flank."
"Iniesta on the ball, passes to Evra."
"Evra moves forward in a straight line and sends a cross to Robben."
"Robben, back to the goal, makes a quick return pass to Iniesta without controlling the ball."
"Iniesta doesn't stop it either, lobbing the ball to the right side of the penalty area."
Through a series of quick, one-touch passes, Atlético rapidly shifted the ball from the left side to the right edge of the penalty arc.
Iniesta's lob bypassed Toulalan and landed just as Kaká surged forward, using his body to block Juninho Pernambucano. Kaká controlled the ball with his right foot just inside the penalty area and sprinted after it.
Lyon center-back Squillaci rushed in from the left side of the penalty spot, but Kaká's speed was unmatched. In a flash, he entered the box and unleashed a thunderous shot.
The ball rocketed off Kaká's foot, grazing the right post before slamming into Lyon's net.
"GOAL!!!!"
"Just 8 minutes after the last goal, Atlético scores again!"
"Kaká charges into the box after a brilliant touch and fires a powerful shot into the net!"
"2-0!"
"Atlético is putting on a spectacular display tonight!"
"Their players seem incredibly motivated, clearly feeding off the electrifying energy of their home crowd."
"Kaká's shot was stunning, and Iniesta's perfectly timed lob into Kaká's path was sublime."
In the opening 20 minutes, Lyon had barely breached Atlético's half. The French side needed a quick solution to avoid being completely overwhelmed.
As Kaká celebrated with his signature skyward-pointing gesture, the 76,500 fans at the Emirates Stadium erupted into raucous cheers. The dominance was absolute.
________________________________________
Despite their two-goal lead, Atlético showed no signs of slowing down. They continued to pressure Lyon, particularly in attack.
With Lyon now focusing much of their defensive effort on Atlético's left flank, Messi and Alves began exploiting the spaces on the right.
A pinpoint pass from Xabi Alonso found Alves, who controlled the ball and played a one-two with Messi. The Brazilian charged down the right and tried to reach the byline but was thwarted by Réveillère, who blocked his path. Alves quickly passed the ball back to Messi on the edge of the box.
As Messi received the ball, Juninho Pernambucano moved in to challenge him. Réveillère, momentarily abandoning Alves, stepped back toward the penalty area to block any inside pass, but this opened a small gap between him and Juninho.
Messi immediately noticed the opening. He knew the window would only last a second or two. If he delayed, Réveillère would retreat to block his path, and Juninho would close him down. Years of experience told him he needed to act immediately.
Without hesitation, Messi began his move. In one fluid motion, he surged toward the middle, the ball seemingly glued to his feet. It was a clear signal of an impending cut inside.
Juninho instinctively stepped in to block Messi's path. But just as he committed, Messi shifted his weight, feinting inside before dragging the ball to the outside with his left foot. In a flash, he burst past Juninho on the outside.
Barely pausing, Messi seamlessly adjusted his footing, added a slight burst of pace, and breezed past the recovering Réveillère as well. Squillaci came charging in next, but Messi deftly dragged the ball back to his right foot before slipping a pinpoint pass across the six-yard box.
The ball landed perfectly at the feet of Torres, who used his body to shield the ball from Bodmer and slotted it into the bottom right corner of the net with ease.
"GOAL AGAIN!!!"
"My God, what just happened?"
"This is unbelievable!"
"Messi dribbled through three Lyon defenders as if they weren't even there!"
"That was pure magic!"
The Emirates Stadium exploded in cheers as Atlético fans screamed with joy. For many, the goal was so fast and unexpected that they had no idea how Messi had managed to pull it off.
All they knew was that the referee had signaled a valid goal, and the scoreboard now read 3-0. That was all that mattered.
As the giant screens inside the stadium replayed the goal, slow-motion footage revealed every intricate move Messi had made. Fans were stunned to see how many touches and feints he had executed in just a few seconds.
"This kid is unbelievable!"
________________________________________
Even the dignitaries in the VIP section were left in awe.
"This Messi is something else!" exclaimed one guest as the crowd roared.
Florentino Pérez, seated nearby, turned to Enrique Cerezo. "He's only 20, right?"
Cerezo nodded. "Yes, he just turned 20."
"In a few years—not even, right now—there'll be few who can stop him."
Cerezo exchanged a glance with Miguel Gil, both catching the unmistakable envy in Pérez's tone.
Crown Prince Felipe, sitting among them, added, "The decision to treat Messi's condition back then was truly remarkable."
Cerezo and Miguel Gil looked slightly uncomfortable. The truth was, everyone present—including Felipe—likely knew that neither Cerezo nor Miguel Gil had made that decision. In fact, they had initially opposed it.
________________________________________
Messi's brilliance continued to define the match. His combination of skill, intelligence, and creativity showcased why he was already becoming one of the world's most unstoppable players. For Atlético, this was not just a victory in the making—it was a declaration. Their new home was now a fortress, and Messi was its most dazzling knight.
Inward Reflection: Not only were Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Gil initially opposed to the decision, but Florentino Pérez's Real Madrid, Barcelona, and countless other European clubs had also rejected the idea. Back then, Messi's father, Jorge, had sent letters and materials to numerous top clubs across Europe, only for them to vanish into the void. Not a single club was willing to pay the necessary medical costs for Messi.
Outwardly, Yang Hao never spoke about this matter. Out of respect for Cerezo and Miguel Gil, he allowed Atlético to take the credit, but everyone knew the truth—this was entirely Yang Hao's decision. In fact, for a considerable period, Yang Hao personally covered Messi's medical and nutritional expenses out of his salary.
Now, as they watched Messi flourish into the player he had become, many deeply regretted their earlier decisions. Not only had they missed out on Messi, but they had possibly missed an entire era.
"Ah, but you've got Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimović—that's already extraordinary," joked Getafe president Ángel Torres, trying to ease the tension.
Still, it was obvious from Florentino Pérez's gaze that he envied Atlético's roster deeply.
Kaká, Messi, Torres, Robben, Iniesta, Xabi Alonso... From every perspective, Atlético's lineup was clearly superior to Real Madrid's. At the very least, it had a far higher aesthetic appeal.
At Real Madrid, the most marketable players were Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham. Zlatan Ibrahimović and Joaquín were decent too.
But then what?
Could Essien and Yaya Touré compete on looks?
Florentino Pérez was brimming with envy toward Atlético.
Real Madrid's current commercial cornerstone, David Beckham, was already 32 years old and gradually being replaced by Essien and Yaya Touré. A decline in the team's aesthetic appeal was imminent, and seeing Atlético's "model squad" only heightened his jealousy.
Kaká, now the world's most marketable player, had already left Beckham far behind. Moreover, he was poised to contend for his third FIFA World Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or.
If Kaká claimed those accolades, his commercial value would skyrocket further, propelling Atlético's overall revenue and threatening Real Madrid's position as the commercial leader in football.
If they couldn't outperform Atlético on the pitch, Real Madrid could still boast their business success. But if they lost even commercially, what would they have left?
To make matters worse, Atlético was chasing a sixth consecutive La Liga title, an achievement Real Madrid could never accept.
In truth, Florentino Pérez had briefly considered attempting to buy out Kaká and Messi this past summer, using their release clauses.
And what did he discover?
Messi's release clause was set at €300 million, as was Kaká's.
In other words, Real Madrid would have to forgo an entire year of income—without spending a cent elsewhere—just to afford one of them.
Even then, there was no guarantee the players would agree to come.
The sheer frustration left Florentino Pérez deeply disheartened. He frequently pondered whether there was any way to stop Atlético.
In the end, his conclusion was: probably not.
Why "probably"?
Because some potential methods might work, but Pérez wouldn't dare use them. Employing such tactics would irreparably damage both his and Real Madrid's reputations.
Ultimately, he hoped to defeat Atlético within the confines of football's rules.
________________________________________
Florentino Pérez, alongside the rest of the spectators, soon noticed another remarkable aspect of Messi's game: his defensive capabilities.
________________________________________
The 37th minute
Messi unexpectedly dropped back into Atlético's half, near the 30-meter mark, and surged forward to intercept the ball at the feet of Réveillère.
Lyon's left-back was caught completely off-guard by the Argentine's persistence. He hadn't expected Messi to tail him so closely, let alone to launch such a sudden challenge from behind.
The tackle not only dispossessed him but also left him stumbling to the ground.
The referee, however, let the play continue.
Seizing the ball, Messi immediately charged forward, quickly passing it to Iniesta.
Iniesta carried the ball toward the halfway line as Atlético organized a rapid counterattack.
Torres darted to the right, while Kaká noticed defenders converging on Iniesta and moved left, signaling for the ball.
Iniesta promptly passed it to Kaká, who took one touch with his right foot and drove forward, accelerating straight ahead rather than continuing down the left flank.
Spotting Torres veering toward the right channel, Kaká suddenly swerved back toward the center, executing a curved run—a classic forward's maneuver that drew Squillaci and Bodmer away.
The right side was now wide open.
Kaká pointed forward as if preparing for a through ball but abruptly changed direction near Toulalan. Feinting to pass, he used his right foot to flick the ball past Toulalan and sent a diagonal pass into the open space behind Squillaci.
Messi had been sprinting the entire time, arriving at the edge of the six-yard box just as Kaká's pass reached him.
Despite his sprint, Messi remained acutely aware of Squillaci's position. As the Lyon defender lunged toward him, Messi's next move left everyone stunned.
Reaching the ball, Messi abruptly stopped dead in his tracks, performing an astonishingly sharp brake.
What was even more incredible was how seamlessly he halted, as if inertia didn't exist for him.
With a deft touch using the outside of his left foot, Messi dragged the ball sideways.
Squillaci was left utterly helpless.
He could see the ball—close enough to touch—but his forward momentum made it impossible to react in time.
Helplessly, he watched as Messi created a narrow gap and curled a shot with his left foot.
Lyon's goalkeeper, Vercoutre, had positioned himself slightly forward, anticipating a potential one-on-one situation. Messi had clearly noticed this too.
The ball arced perfectly over Vercoutre, clipping the top-left corner where the crossbar met the post before nestling into the net.
The Emirates Stadium erupted with deafening cheers.
________________________________________
Messi's goal was another reminder of why he was destined to dominate an era. Watching from the stands, even his critics couldn't help but marvel at his brilliance.
Messi sprinted across the field, shouting in exhilaration, his voice drowned by the roaring cheers of Atlético fans who chanted his name with unbridled passion. As he reached the lower stands, Messi spread his arms wide, facing the Atlético supporters.
His teammates, led by Kaká and Torres, rushed over, surrounding him in a jubilant group hug. Ramos bolted in, lifting Messi high into the air.
Breaking free from their embrace, Messi pulled up his jersey to reveal a white T-shirt underneath, emblazoned with the name "Calderón" written in bold red letters.
Pointing repeatedly at the words across his chest, Messi displayed the shirt to the stands and the cameras, ensuring the entire stadium and millions watching at home could see.
"This is incredibly moving!" the commentator exclaimed. "Messi is telling every Atlético fan that even though the Calderón stadium is gone, its spirit remains alive!"
"Though we've moved to a new stadium, though the Calderón has been demolished, its essence and legacy live on. As long as Atlético endures, any place can be our Calderón!"
The fans erupted in ecstasy. Thousands stood, chanting Messi's name and roaring their approval. Their voices overlapped into a cacophony of pure emotion, making it impossible to discern individual chants. Even those watching from home could feel the electric energy of the moment.
________________________________________
On the sidelines, Yang Hao joined in, clapping with all his might, as did the coaching staff and players on the bench.
Messi's spontaneous gesture caught everyone off guard. "When did he come up with this?" Yang Hao asked, still in awe.
"No clue," Juanma Lillo responded, equally bewildered. "None of us knew. Not even the players."
Yang Hao chuckled, shaking his head. "This kid. Pulling a stunt like this—kind of touching, isn't it?"
He couldn't deny it: Messi's affection for Atlético ran deep. It rivaled that of lifelong players like Torres.
Perhaps it wasn't just the years Messi had spent at Atlético—his life, training, and rise to stardom—but something more. It was Yang Hao's Atlético, the team that had nurtured and championed him.
Messi rarely expressed himself emotionally, but his gesture today spoke volumes, a heartfelt tribute to the fans and the legacy of the Calderón.
In that moment, Yang Hao no longer saw Messi as the mythical figure from his past life, a symbol of footballing greatness. Instead, he saw the Messi who had lived alongside him for seven years—an unmistakably human and loyal figure.
The Messi who had just now, with radiant joy, hoisted his shirt once again to display the name "Calderón," sharing this moment of unity with his adoring fans.
________________________________________
During halftime, Atlético led 4–0, utterly dominating Lyon. As the players exited the pitch, Yang Hao individually greeted each one with a handshake or hug.
When it was Messi's turn, Yang Hao put an arm around him, walking shoulder-to-shoulder down the tunnel.
"When did you make that shirt?" Yang Hao asked.
"Yesterday, at home," Messi replied with a cheeky grin.
Yang Hao tousled Messi's hair. "You rascal. Pulled this stunt on all of us, huh?"
"No, no," Messi said, laughing. "I saw Ramos, Torres, and Kaká all doing things for the fans, and I thought, 'I need to do something too. Moving to a new stadium is a big deal—I had to show some appreciation.'"
He laughed again, his tone almost sheepish.
"And what if you hadn't scored?" Yang Hao teased.
"I was confident I would," Messi replied, flashing a grin.
"But seriously—what if you didn't?"
Messi paused to think, then said, "I guess after the match, I would've taken off my jersey and walked around the pitch to show the shirt."
His innocent, slightly bashful smile tugged at Yang Hao's heart.
Yang Hao's throat tightened with emotion. "You're something else, you know that?"
"Boss," Messi said suddenly, turning his head with a mischievous smile, "are you getting emotional?"
"Me? Emotional?" Yang Hao feigned a scowl. "I'm about to lose my temper!"
"Temper?"
"For real—I feel like hitting you right now!"
Quick as a flash, Messi darted ahead, laughing as Yang Hao watched him go, shaking his head but unable to suppress a smile.
________________________________________
The second half began with Atlético as relentless as ever.
Within the first ten minutes, Lyon couldn't even string together a pass across the halfway line. Their only reprieves came from desperate clearances.
Then, in the 53rd minute, Atlético orchestrated yet another dazzling attack.
Lyon attempted a counter, but Xabi Alonso intercepted the ball and immediately passed it forward to Iniesta. The midfield maestro advanced, feeding the ball to Torres, who played a diagonal pass to Kaká.
Facing Toulalan, Kaká executed a stunning Marseille Turn, spinning past the midfielder and delivering a perfect diagonal pass into the box.
Messi darted through Lyon's defense, collected the ball, and calmly slotted it home with a precise right-footed finish.
5–0!
Messi took off toward the stands again, this time accompanied by the entire Atlético team.
As Messi pulled up his jersey once more to reveal the words "Calderón," his teammates gathered around him, each pointing to the name on his chest.
The scene sent the crowd into fits of laughter and cheers, the joy palpable in every corner of the stadium.
On the sidelines, Yang Hao watched, shaking his head with a grin.
"These brats," he muttered, amused. "They're getting too good at this!"
After Atlético Madrid's resounding 5–0 victory over Lyon, the French team seemed to have given up, playing out the match with a sense of resignation. Yang Hao took the opportunity to rotate his squad, mindful of an upcoming La Liga match also at home.
David Silva replaced Kaká, whose outstanding performance earned him a standing ovation and thunderous applause from the Atlético fans. Shortly after, Luka Modrić came on for Messi, who had already scored twice and was similarly celebrated by the crowd.
With these adjustments, Atlético shifted to a more controlled approach, curbing their attacking intensity. Despite dominating possession for the remainder of the game, they did not score again.
The final whistle blew with the scoreboard locked at 5–0.
________________________________________
Match Stats and Key Performances
Atlético Madrid maintained 66.7% possession, taking 24 shots, 11 of which were on target, while Lyon managed only 4 shots with none on target.
Young striker Karim Benzema, despite showing promise with his movement and hold-up play, failed to register a single shot, though his positional sense left a lasting impression on Yang Hao.
Lionel Messi was deservedly named Man of the Match. His dynamic dribbling and incisive contributions were the focal point of media and fan discussions post-match.
________________________________________
Post-Match Press Conference: Yang Hao's Responses
At the post-match press conference, reporters flooded Yang Hao with questions about Messi and Kaká.
Questions about Kaká centered on his pursuit of the FIFA World Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or, while Messi's performances sparked discussions about his growing importance to the team.
Some even asked whether Messi was gradually replacing Kaká as Atlético's attacking linchpin, given his electrifying form and the tactical challenges he posed for Lyon, who often resorted to double-marking him.
Yang Hao tactfully responded:
"Tonight was a match that belonged to Messi—he completely unlocked our attacking play. However, the idea that he's replacing Kaká isn't accurate."
He elaborated, "You all saw how seamlessly Messi and Kaká work together. Their chemistry is exceptional, as demonstrated by Kaká's beautiful Marseille turn that led to Messi's goal."
Reporters nodded in agreement.
Yang Hao also touched on Kaká's evolving style, noting a reduction in his trademark sprints and sharp directional changes. "This is intentional," Yang Hao said. "Excessive sharp turns and rapid sprints can place significant strain on a player's muscles, and we're focused on preserving their longevity."
Yang Hao emphasized that this principle applied not just to Kaká but to Messi, Torres, Ramos, David Silva, and Modrić as well.
"People often ask me why Atlético players seem to have fewer injuries. It's not just our medical team and facilities but also our rotational strategy. With a first-team squad of 23–25 players, I can ensure that no one is overburdened."
When a reporter jokingly pointed out that Torres wasn't a veteran yet, Yang Hao laughed: "Come on, he's only 23!"
________________________________________
Reflections on Perceptions of Age
Yang Hao highlighted how Torres' early rise to stardom gave the impression of him being an experienced veteran.
"Torres debuted and broke through so early that many assume he's older than he is. But let's not forget—he's the same age as Robben and only a year older than Robinho."
Yang Hao drew a humorous parallel, comparing fans' misconceptions about players' ages to historical surprises: "It's like finding out Emperor Liu Bang and Qin Shi Huang were contemporaries—it completely shifts your perspective!"
________________________________________
Post-Match Reactions
The next day, Atlético's 5–0 demolition of Lyon dominated headlines.
The consensus was clear: with such a commanding display, Atlético's place as group winners was virtually guaranteed. Few believed the other two teams in the group could challenge their supremacy, let alone Lyon after such a thrashing.
However, much of the media's attention focused on two moments:
Messi's shirt tribute to the Calderón: His decision to reveal a T-shirt bearing the name of Atlético's old stadium struck an emotional chord with fans. The team's camaraderie during Messi's second goal celebration: The live broadcast showed every player pointing to Messi's tribute shirt in unison, a moment that reflected the harmony in the Atlético dressing room.
Media Praise for Messi
Marca called Messi's gesture a profound expression of his connection to Atlético:
"Messi's act resonated deeply with fans, sparking overnight discussions across Atlético fan groups, where he was widely praised. His message was clear: wherever the team and fans go, that's where the Calderón lives on."
The paper also lauded Messi's on-field performance, noting his growing influence under Yang Hao's system:
"Messi improves day by day, and every few weeks, his growth becomes more apparent. To Atlético fans, it's like watching one of their own children grow into a star."
Marca confidently predicted that Messi was on the path to becoming another global icon like Kaká, someone who could represent Atlético on the world stage.
________________________________________
Praise for Atlético's Offensive Quartet
The report further celebrated Atlético's attacking unit: Robben, Torres/Drogba, Messi, Iniesta, and Kaká.
"With years of development and refinement, this combination has matured into a deadly force," Marca observed. "While Yang Hao has experimented with rotations, this core lineup remains the most potent."
________________________________________
Lyon's Reaction
In his post-match interview, Lyon coach Alain Perrin expressed disappointment but urged fans to remain realistic:
"We were up against Atlético Madrid—the reigning European champions and arguably the strongest team on the planet right now."
His comment underscored the sheer dominance Atlético Madrid has established, not just in La Liga but across Europe.
Alain Perrin admitted that his players gave their all but were ultimately unable to stop Atlético Madrid.
"We have to accept this reality," he remarked.
Beyond the Champions League match itself, much of the discussion among media and fans revolved around Atlético's stunning new stadium. Aerial shots of the Madrid Emirates Stadium illuminated at night, aired before the match, captured its beauty. During the game, the electrifying atmosphere further underscored the stadium's appeal.
Both fans and pundits heaped praise on the new arena. Online debates even began to suggest that the Emirates Stadium had surpassed the Allianz Arena to become the most beautiful football stadium in the world. Intriguingly, both venues were designed by Herzog & de Meuron.
After their first home game, Atlético Madrid's management began collecting feedback from fans about the new stadium. While the majority of comments were positive, there were inevitable criticisms, such as issues with seating, unclear signage, and untrained staff.
Atlético swiftly addressed these concerns. The club's fan service department issued a statement promising to improve training for staff and enhance the overall stadium experience based on the feedback. This proactive approach earned widespread praise from supporters.
Meanwhile, in the group's other Champions League match, Slavia Prague secured a 2–1 home victory over Steaua Bucharest. With Atlético's 5–0 win, they topped the group standings after the first round.
________________________________________
La Liga Week 4 Recap
Following the Champions League opener, La Liga's fourth round kicked off over the weekend, with the highlight being Barcelona hosting Sevilla.
This clash was a true battle of titans. Mourinho's Barça had already endured significant setbacks this season, and another loss at the Camp Nou would have further destabilized the Portuguese manager's position.
But Mourinho, true to his resilient nature, managed to pull off a narrow victory. Despite Sevilla posing the greater threat in the first half, with Renato's shot striking the crossbar, fortune seemed to favor Barcelona.
In the 74th minute, Ronaldinho delivered a precise through ball to Henry, who broke the deadlock. Six minutes later, Ronaldinho dribbled into the penalty area, drawing a foul and converting the resulting penalty.
Although Kanouté scored a late consolation goal for Sevilla, Barcelona secured a 2–1 win at home.
Mourinho declared triumphantly that Barça was improving and could perform even better in the coming weeks.
However, Johan Cruyff criticized Mourinho in his column, asserting that the coach's tactics were failing to unlock Barcelona's full potential. Cruyff argued that the team's attacking struggles, particularly their inability to score in recent away matches, were indicative of flaws in their possession play.
Cruyff's critique reflected his belief that Mourinho's Barcelona had deviated from the club's traditional philosophy.
________________________________________
Other Results in Week 4
Valencia faced a tough away match against Real Betis. After a grueling battle, Valencia finally secured a 2–1 victory thanks to goals from Miguel and David Villa, with Sobis scoring for Betis.
Villarreal, playing at home, defeated Murcia 2–0 with a brace from Giuseppe Rossi.
Real Madrid traveled to Valladolid in a challenging contest. Coming off their midweek Champions League match, Madrid looked sluggish and wasted numerous first-half chances.
Cristiano Ronaldo ultimately broke the deadlock in the 70th minute with a stunning long-range strike. Yaya Touré sealed the victory in the 87th minute, delivering a perfectly timed lofted pass to Zlatan Ibrahimović, who volleyed it home.
The 2–0 result ensured Madrid returned with all three points.
________________________________________
Atlético Madrid's Dominance
Atlético hosted Racing Santander at the Emirates Stadium, with the venue once again packed to capacity. The fans were still buzzing from their 5–0 Champions League triumph earlier in the week.
Though Marcelino's Racing side posed a formidable challenge—having yet to lose this season with one win and two draws—playing at the Emirates proved too much for them.
In the 12th minute, Kaká opened the scoring with a powerful long-range shot from the edge of the penalty area.
Atlético then shifted to a more controlled approach, focusing on possession to wear down Racing. After halftime, with Santander's energy levels waning, Atlético pressed their advantage.
In the 70th minute, Drogba scored a towering header. Seven minutes later, Kaká delivered a defense-splitting pass to Messi, who coolly slotted the ball into the net.
Finally, in the 86th minute, Messi set up Robben, who sealed the 4–0 victory.
The four goals, each from a different player, showcased Atlético's versatile attacking arsenal and earned the team widespread acclaim for their offensive firepower.
________________________________________
La Liga Standings
After four matches, Atlético sat fifth in the league with seven points but had played one game fewer.
Villarreal and Valencia led the table with nine points each, occupying first and second, respectively.
________________________________________
The Road Ahead
With La Liga now entering a stretch of consecutive weeks with midweek fixtures, Atlético and other teams face a grueling test of squad depth and endurance.
Midweek: Round 5 of La Liga.
Arsène Wenger's Real Madrid appeared to be hitting their stride. Hosting Real Betis, Madrid dominated from the start, with a staggering 69.3% possession in the first half. Despite their dominance, Betis put up a strong defensive effort, holding Madrid scoreless until the 42nd minute.
A quick counterattack saw Essien pass to Joaquín, whose right-wing cross found Cristiano Ronaldo near the penalty spot. Ronaldo struck the ball home to open the scoring.
In the 57th minute, Andrea Pirlo delivered a long pass into the box, where Zlatan Ibrahimović controlled it with his chest and unleashed a powerful shot to double Madrid's lead. As is typical for Ibrahimović, only the most challenging goals seemed to pique his interest.
In the 67th minute, Ronaldo was fouled in the penalty area after a surging run down the left. He coolly converted the penalty to make it 3–0. Minutes later, another Ronaldo run created an opportunity. This time, he passed to Yaya Touré, who scored from the edge of the box with a precise shot.
The final score: Real Madrid 4–0 Real Betis.
Wenger's side surged to the top of the table with four wins from five matches.
________________________________________
Mourinho vs. Cruyff: The Verbal Battle Continues
Barcelona also enjoyed a resounding 4–1 victory over Zaragoza at Camp Nou. José Mourinho, emboldened by the result, hit back at Johan Cruyff's criticism in his post-match comments:
"Some people's job is to analyze opponents daily and lead their teams from the sidelines. Others watch games from home and write columns. I respect all professions, but I don't believe those who sit at home writing have the authority to dictate how professionals on the touchline should do their jobs."
Mourinho's remarks caused a stir in Catalonia, as they were clearly directed at Cruyff, who had been a vocal critic of Mourinho since his appointment at Barcelona.
________________________________________
Atlético Madrid's Dominance in Bilbao
Atlético Madrid traveled north to face Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés. From the opening whistle, Lionel Messi was electric.
In the 7th minute, Messi received a pass from Kaká on the right flank, dribbled past two defenders, and unleashed a curling shot that narrowly missed. Moments later, another inside run resulted in a through ball that Robben couldn't quite reach.
Finally, in the 7th minute, Messi broke the deadlock. After combining with Kaká and Drogba, he cut into the box and curled a left-footed shot into the top-left corner. 1–0 to Atlético.
Yang Hao applauded from the sidelines, clearly pleased with Messi's ever-improving physicality:
"His body control has noticeably improved," Yang commented.
Unlike in the past, when Messi would lose balance under pressure, he now withstood physical challenges while maintaining control. His enhanced physique didn't come at the expense of his agility—a crucial factor for Messi's playing style.
Five minutes later, Messi struck again. Kaká's precise through ball found the Argentine, who outpaced the defense and calmly slotted home to make it 2–0.
Atlético continued to pile on the pressure. In the 26th minute, Messi provided an assist for Kaká, who set up Robben to score at the far post. 3–0.
Just before halftime, Kaká sent another through ball into the box. Drogba beat his marker with a quick feint and scored with a low shot. 4–0 at the break.
In the second half, Atlético eased off slightly but still controlled the game. In the 78th minute, Xabi Alonso's corner kick found Sergio Ramos, who headed the ball into the net for a fifth goal.
The final score: Athletic Bilbao 0–5 Atlético Madrid.
Friends, if you enjoyed the novel, you can subscribe to my Patreon channel.
Read 16 Chapters In Advance: patreon.com/Canserbero10