Atlético Madrid earns a 1-1 draw against Sagan Tosu
The first match of the Asian tour for Atlético Madrid ended in a 1-1 draw against Sagan Tosu in a game in which it was evident that the Japanese team is in the middle of their season. After settling in, the Spanish team started to show their identity, based on pressure and intensity. Although they also displayed new skills with the ball, thanks to quality players like Óliver, Carrasco, and Correa, they failed to secure the win.
Miguel Ángel Moyá:
He had little participation in the game, as the Japanese team barely approached the goal. He did well with aerial balls, although he made a mistake in the goal. He saved a penalty during the penalty shootout.
Jesús Gámez:
In the first half, he played on the right and contributed very little to the attack. In the second half, playing on the left, he made more offensive runs. He was easily overcome in the own goal.
Savic:
He wasn't put under much pressure. He was strong in aerial duels and secure in the ball distribution, especially when not pressed too much.
Lucas Hernández:
He performed well playing out of position, and he wasn't heavily challenged either.
Siquiera:
Perhaps because he feels Filipe Luis breathing down his neck, the Brazilian had a great game. He exhibited intensity in defense and had a significant impact in the attack. There will be healthy competition at left-back.
Saúl Ñíguez:
The midfielder had a fantastic game. He contributed greatly to the defensive balance and was involved in the team's build-up play. His connection with Óliver Torres and Ferreira Carrasco was crucial. He is expected to be an influential player this season.
Koke:
He seemed a bit lost in his new position. Simeone wants the Madrid-born player to be the engine of his new Atlético, but he didn't participate enough when he was alone with Saúl in midfield. In the second half, with Tiago and Gabi, he was even less involved.
Óliver Torres:
He had a game to prove himself. He was involved and showed flashes of his quality. However, he sometimes holds onto the ball for too long, which can work against him. Depending on Simeone's plans, he can have significant playing time this year.
Ferreira Carrasco:
He showcased his verticality. It was clear that he is not in full physical condition, but he made impressive dribbles and runs. He established good chemistry with Óliver and Siquiera on the left wing.
Raúl García:
He struggled on the left wing. His defensive work was evident, as he provided assistance to Jesús Gámez. With players like Griezmann and Correa, his chances of regular playing time are slim.
Fernando Torres:
He was not very involved in the game and created very few chances. He was isolated upfront.
SUBSTITUTES
Juanfran Torres:
He came on for Siquiera at halftime. Initially, he played on the left wing, then switched positions with Gámez. He didn't run up the wing much, but he also didn't struggle in defense.
Griezmann:
Since he came on in the 50th minute, he showed a lot of enthusiasm. He pressed and tried to make plays. He combined well with Vietto and Correa. Their partnership is expected to be fruitful.
Ángel Correa:
Undoubtedly, he is one of the positive aspects of Atlético's preseason. He is dynamic and daring. He progressively faded, but he demonstrated his potential with the minutes he played.
Vietto:
He and Correa can form a lethal partnership. He had two clear chances as soon as he came on, but he failed to convert them. He brought a lot of mobility upfront and showed that he can drop back to participate in the build-up play.
Gabi:
He came on together with Tiago and formed a midfield trio with them and Koke. Among the three, he was the one who joined the attack the most, although he didn't have much impact on the game.
Tiago:
He took Saúl's position as the defensive midfielder and performed well. He even dared to make offensive runs with the ball.
Thomas:
He came on for Koke in the 86th minute, so he didn't have a chance to prove himself. As we reported earlier, Simeone vetoed his departure from the team.