Antoine Griezmann’s sublime free-kick proved decisive as Atlético Madrid edged past second-tier Deportivo La Coruña with a narrow 1–0 victory on Tuesday, securing their place in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals.
The veteran forward struck in the 61st minute, curling a perfectly weighted effort into the top-right corner from just outside the penalty area. It was the breakthrough Atlético had been searching for in a tie that marked the clubs’ first meeting in nearly eight years.
The occasion carried added emotional weight. Deportivo supporters paid tribute to Jimmy Romero, a Depor fan who died 11 years ago after being brutally assaulted by Atlético ultras and left in Madrid’s Manzanares river. A banner in his memory was displayed behind one goal at the Riazor stadium.
Given the history, the match had been classified as high risk. Spanish media reported isolated moments of tension between groups of supporters outside the ground, though no serious incidents were recorded.
From a sporting perspective, the victory was crucial for Atlético. Diego Simeone’s side have struggled for consistency in LaLiga and suffered a damaging defeat to rivals Real Madrid in last week’s Spanish Super Cup semi-finals. With last season ending without silverware, progression in the Copa represents a vital opportunity to salvage momentum in an otherwise uneven campaign.
Atlético controlled much of the contest but initially lacked cutting edge. Griezmann came closest before the break, striking the woodwork as Simeone’s side dominated possession without reward.
Simeone made a decisive intervention shortly before the hour mark, withdrawing an out-of-form Julián Álvarez, who has managed just one goal in his last nine appearances. The change preceded the game’s defining moment, with Griezmann delivering from a set-piece when open-play solutions proved elusive.
His expertly bent free-kick ultimately separated the sides, allowing Atlético to see out the tie with a measure of control and relief.
Elsewhere in the Copa del Rey, Real Madrid — now under the guidance of new head coach Álvaro Arbeloa — travel to Albacete on Wednesday, while defending champions Barcelona face a stern test away to Segunda División leaders Racing Santander on Thursday.
