Griezmann Curler Fires Atlético into Copa del Rey Quarters
Antoine Griezmann's free-kick helped Atletico Madrid squeeze past second-tier Deportivo La Coruna 1-0 on Tuesday to reach the Copa del Rey quarter-finals. Veteran forward Griezmann's perfectly-placed effort broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, as the sides met for the first time in nearly eight years. Depor supporter Jimmy Romero was viciously beaten and left in the Manzanares river in Madrid by Atletico ultras 11 years ago, dying as a result from his injuries, and he was remembered by a banner behind one goal at the Galician side's Riazor stadium.
The cup match had been declared a high-risk game and Spanish media reported there were some moments of tension between supporters outside, which did not develop into serious incidents. Off the pace in La Liga and after defeat by rivals Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semi-finals last week, a win was vital for Atletico to boost their chances of some silverware this season. Diego Simeone's side ended up with nothing in their frustrating previous campaign. French forward Griezmann, 34, struck the woodwork towards the end of the first half as Atletico dominated but could not find a way through.
Simeone hooked out-of-form striker Julian Alvarez before the hour mark, with the Argentina international having scored only once in his last nine matches. Shortly afterwards Atletico took the lead, with Griezmann delicately curling a free-kick into the top right corner from just outside the area, and it proved decisive. "He's still got the magic that keeps him going and gives him the desire to still be helping the team, like he did with this goal," said Simeone.
Elsewhere, Athletic Bilbao edged second-division Cultural Leonesa with a thrilling 4-3 win after extra-time, despite having Aitor Paredes sent off in the 56th minute. Real Sociedad and Osasuna drew 2-2, with the former progressing 4-3 on penalties. Real Madrid, led by new coach Alvaro Arbeloa, visit Albacete on Wednesday and Copa del Rey holders Barcelona travel to face second division leaders Racing Santander on Thursday.
