Atletico Madrid's Opening Day Defeat Under Simeone

Madrid, Aug 18 (AP) Atletico Madrid faced a setback as it debuted most of its new signings but still succumbed to a dramatic late defeat, conceding two late goals in a 2-1 loss to Espanyol. This marked the first time that Atletico has lost its opening Spanish league match under coach Diego Simeone, who took charge in late 2011. Their last opening day defeat came back in 2009.

Espanyol enjoyed a strong start to the season under the new ownership of the England-based group Velocity Sport Limited and its American shareholders. Alan Pace, an American businessman and part of the ownership, expressed his delight on Instagram, stating, “What a wonderful way to start the season, with a win against Atlético Madrid!”

Diego Simeone initiated the clash with five of the club's new acquisitions for the season: Álex Baena, Thiago Almada, Johnny Cardoso, David Hancko, and Matteo Ruggeri. Giacomo Raspadori also made his debut, coming off the bench in the second half. Atletico initially took the lead with Julián Alvarez's free kick in the 37th minute but later conceded goals to Miguel Rubio and Pere Milla in the 73rd and 84th minutes respectively.

Simeone maintained a positive outlook despite the loss, saying, “It happens. The result hurts, but it's going to make us improve and grow. I'm left with all the good things the team did.” Last season, Atletico only lost a league match twice after being in the lead.

Atletico midfielder Koke commented on the game, saying, “We played a very good first half and we had the match under control in the second. But after their first goal, they turned things around.”

Meanwhile, Barcelona kicked off their title defense with a comfortable 3-0 victory at nine-man Mallorca on Saturday. Real Madrid is set to host Osasuna on Tuesday.

Nico Williams stole the spotlight for Athletic Bilbao in their thrilling 3-2 victory over Sevilla. Despite transfer rumors linking him to Barcelona in the offseason, Williams seemed set to remain with his childhood club, giving Athletic the lead with a 36th-minute penalty kick. Athletic, who finished fourth last season, extended their lead with a goal from Maroan Sannadi in the 43rd. However, Sevilla rallied with goals by Dodi Lukebakio in the 60th and Lucien Agoume in the 72nd. Robert Navarro put Athletic back in front for good, scoring in the 81st minute.

Goalkeeper Unai Simon played a crucial role in sealing the victory as Sevilla intensified their attack. This match marked Iñaki Williams' first as Athletic's main captain, a significant moment as he becomes the first Black captain at the club that traditionally fields players from Spain's northern Basque Country or adjoining areas.

In another match, a depleted Getafe squad secured a 2-0 win at Celta Vigo, with second-half goals from Adrián Liso and Christantus Uche. The Madrid-based team faced challenges in registering many of its new players due to financial fair play regulations, yet managed an impressive start. It was a disappointing opener for Celta, who were aiming to build on their previous season's European qualification.

On Friday, Rayo Vallecano triumphed over Girona with a 3-1 win, while Villarreal clinched a 2-0 victory against newly-promoted Oviedo. (AP) UNG

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