Atlético de Madrid edge Rayo Vallecano 1-2 in Vallecas as Molina and Hermoso find the net
In Vallecas, Molina and Hermoso found the goal for Atlético de Madrid, while Fran García’s late strike offered some glimmer for Rayo Vallecano as the visitors stretched their advantage to two goals before the hosts rallied. The match told two halves with contrasting approaches from Andoni Iraola’s side and a second period in which Atlético looked more dangerous but struggled to convert their chances until the closing stages.
Rayo Vallecano pressed from the outset, showing determination and quick transitions, but Atlético maintained discipline in defense and found pockets of menace on the break. The hosts created several half chances through persistent forays on the right and clever combinations around the edge of the box, yet Oblak remained composed and alert throughout. As the minutes wore on, Rayo’s energy began to fade while Atlético looked more assured on the ball, pressing at pivotal moments and keeping their opponents at bay.
Atlético de Madrid grew into the game after the break. They moved the ball with greater tempo and accuracy, constructing patient sequences that tested the Rayo backline. Despite clear opportunities, finishing let the visitors down at key moments, until Griezmann finally unlocked the defense with a well-timed pass that opened space for a clinical strike, before Dimitrievski made a number of sharp saves to keep the score close. The absence of a wider advantage early on eventually gave Rayo hope to stay in touch with the visitors as the clock wound down.
It was Molina, however, who broke the deadlock in the first half with a precise counter after a turnover in midfield. The goal showcased Atlético’s pace on the break and the Argentine winger’s willingness to take on the defense. Hermoso then extended the lead later in the game with a well-placed finish, and the match remained in the balance until Fran García reduced the deficit late on with a strong long-range effort. The late strike suggested a possible twist, but Atlético held firm to seal the three points.
Atlético de Madrid continue a strong run this season and sit just two points behind Real Madrid for second place in La Liga.
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Minute by minute highlights from Vallecas featured a dramatic late moment as Fran García fired low from the left, forcing Oblak into a full-stretch save before sealing a narrow margin for his side. The referee consulted VAR for a prior decision on Lejeune, which led to a yellow and, after review, a potential red card for the Valencia resident in the encounter. The match remained intense as both teams pushed for control in the final minutes.
Rayo Vallecano’s response after conceding showed fight. Balliu took responsibility on the right flank, providing width and testing Atlético’s defence, while the hosts looked for opportunities from distance as Oblak kept them from a dramatic equalizer. By halftime, Atlético led 0-2 after a blistering start that included Griezmann’s influence in midfield play and Molina and Hermoso delivering on the counter and finishing quality. The game also featured standout moments from Molina, Morata, and the Argentinian winger who joined the break with intent.
24′ Gooooooooal from the visitors after a corner kick as a central defender finished with purpose to double the visitors’ lead. 22′ Molina rounds the goalkeeper after a fast counter, finishing with composure to register a second for Atlético. The celebration saw Molina lift a shirt bearing a teammate’s number in tribute, a moment captured by fans and shared across social media.
Molina’s tribute during the post-match celebrations reflected the close ties within Atlético’s squad, a gesture acknowledged by supporters during a difficult period for a teammate and his connection to the club’s culture of solidarity. The moment was documented by national outlets and highlighted in matchday roundups.
Final lineups and tactical setups were reviewed after the match, with Atlético maintaining a compact shape and exploiting transitions effectively. The home side, despite showing resilience, could not overturn the deficit and were left to reflect on what had been a demanding afternoon in Vallecas.
Summary and statistics from the fixture illustrate Atlético de Madrid’s continued momentum, as the team extended their recent run and reinforced their position in the table ahead of the sprint to the end of the season. The match confirmed the two teams’ evolving approaches: consistency from Atlético and a persistent, unyielding effort from Rayo Vallecano in front of their home crowd.
All action, including lineups, player performances, and post-match reactions, contributed to a comprehensive picture of the contest. The result highlighted Atlético’s proficiency on the break and the importance of finishing in front of goal, while Rayo’s energy and pressing required sharper execution to turn moments into goals.
Source: Goal
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