Diego Simeone praised Lee Kang-in as a very committed player, helping Atletico Madrid secure a winning start.

Atletico Madrid, nicknamed the "Rojiblancos," defeated Malaga 2-0 in their opening La Liga match of the 2026/27 season, thanks to goals from Lee Kang-in and Baena. Head coach Diego Simeone stated that new signing Lee Kang-in is a player who is always very committed and willing to step up for the team.

David Hantzko delivered a long pass in the 70th minute of the second half, and Lee Kang-in controlled the ball before breaking through to the edge of the penalty area and unleashing a long-range shot that found the back of the net, giving Atletico Madrid a 1-0 lead.

In the 85th minute, Baena scored directly from a free kick, making the score 2-0. Ultimately, Atletico Madrid defeated Malaga 2-0, securing a winning start to their campaign.

When asked about his favorite goal in the match, Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone said, "It would be unfair to Baena and Lee Kang-in if we had to pick one, because they both scored very brilliant goals. The opposing goalkeeper made two very good saves, but that one goal was simply unstoppable."

"So I won't choose one of them, lest they be unhappy. Both goals were excellent, very well executed, and we really need goals like that."

It's worth mentioning that this was South Korean midfielder Lee Kang-in's first time playing in La Liga for Atletico Madrid, and he helped the team achieve a winning start.

Diego Simeone pointed out, "Málaga is very competitive. We knew we might start slowly, but we would get stronger and stronger. Our performance in the first half was crucial, gradually wearing down our opponents. And the substitutes in the second half delivered the best possible performance, meeting our expectations."

“Lee Kang-in is a player who can play according to the needs of the game. When the team needs him, he will step up because he is a very dedicated player, which we have seen in his national team and the clubs he has played for before. He always gives his all, and now the most important thing is to help him reach his best form.”

In addition, Diego Simeone said, "The best way to approach this match is to field the best players, so they got their starting opportunities. They showed great competitiveness and steered the game in the right direction. In the attacking third, we had several chances that we could have handled better. And in the second half, with the substitutions, we took the game to another level in terms of the ability required."

“Baena is in excellent form. His brilliant goal was no accident; he put the ball directly and accurately into the top corner. He is in excellent training condition, fast and agile. He participated in the World Cup and has only been training for a few days now. But the energy from winning the World Cup is very positive, and hopefully we can make good use of that.”

Image source: Internet