Atleti make it five wins in a row! We break down the hard-fought 2-1 win over Alavés at Mendizorroza, Atleti's first win there since the 2020-21 season, and a first Champions League win of the campaign against Manchester United, a side Atleti have never lost to in the Champions League.
We start by sending our condolences to Koke following the passing of his mother.
Then we get into Sørloth's return, Cuti Romero's header at the back post and why he's already a leader, how Simeone set up to defend the wide areas, and how Atleti beat United's high press with runners in behind. We also talk about Johnny Cardoso, Álex Baena's growth, Pablo Barrios's limitless ceiling, and the stats showing a more balanced team that is now turning draws into wins. Plus: does Cholo finally believe in this squad?
We finish with a preview of Espanyol away, the players to watch and our score predictions, and Kevin gives us the latest on Brighton in the Conference League.
0:00 Welcome
1:11 Our condolences to Koke
1:27 Alavés 1-2 Atleti: Sørloth returns, Romero's winner
10:09 Simeone's game plan against Alavés
12:35 Atleti vs Manchester United: beating the press
23:10 Johnny Cardoso and the missing final ball
29:03 Álex Baena: building towards his best level
33:00 Pablo Barrios: the sky is the limit
37:41 Tempo, touches and Julián's form
39:27 The numbers: this season vs last
42:16 Balance, belief and Simeone's best squad?
47:38 Preview: Espanyol vs Atleti
53:24 Espanyol players to watch
55:33 Predictions
57:56 Wrap-up and Brighton in the Conference League
Game by game. Partido a partido.
Follow ThePaPPod so you never miss an episode, and let us know your prediction for Espanyol!
Music: "Spanish Passion" by FesliyanStudios.com
