Lee, Baena guide Atletico to opening Liga win over Malaga

Kang-In Lee scored the opening goal for Atletico Madrid from a free-kick as the team defeated Malaga with a 2-0 victory in their La Liga debut on Wednesday at the Metropolitano stadium. Lee, who signed from Paris Saint-Germain this summer, netted the opening goal in the 70th minute with a well-crafted strike into the far post. Alex Baena added to the lead with a spectacular free-kick bent just off the crossbar in the 85th minute.

Julian Alvarez, originally linked with a move to Barcelona, was absent from the starting lineup as he continues to regain fitness following a break after the World Cup. Diego Simeone, Atletico's coach, fielded a team filled with young talent, including Lee and Baena, who made a significant impact in the second half. Malaga, promoted from the third tier and having been relegated from La Liga in 2018, put up a spirited fight throughout the match.

The match saw Ademola Lookman and David Hancko come close to scoring for Atletico, but they were ultimately outclassed. The loss leaves Malaga sixth in the table, while Atletico begins their La Liga journey with a strong opening win. Real Madrid and Barcelona will kick off their campaigns on Saturday and Sunday respectively, facing Villarreal and Elche.