Atlético Madrid move provisionally top after Sevilla win

Atlético Madrid have moved provisionally to the top of LaLiga after defeating Sevilla 3-1, recovering strongly from their recent draw with Villarreal. The result leaves Sevilla in fifth place and gives Diego Simeone’s team momentum ahead of their next league match at Athletic Club on September 5.

Atlético settled the match during an efficient first half. Baena struck in the fourth minute after receiving a pass from Kang-in Lee, then doubled the advantage with a low finish following Llorente’s delivery. Lookman added a third in the 26th minute, beating the goalkeeper at the near post for his first goal of the season. Sevilla were unable to respond before the interval, despite an early effort from Kike Salas that went narrowly wide.

The balance changed after the break. Sevilla controlled more of the possession and reduced the deficit in the 66th minute, when Sierra converted a loose ball with a powerful volley. They produced 12 attempts in the second half and appealed unsuccessfully for a late penalty after a challenge involving Hjulmand. Atlético, having seen another Lookman goal ruled out for offside, focused on protecting their two-goal lead and held on.

The victory is significant against the backdrop of Atlético’s listed sixth-place position and four points from their opening two league matches, with a 1-1 record and a 4-2 goal difference. Their recent form had included wins against Girona and Osasuna but losses to Villarreal, Celta de Vigo and Arsenal. This performance combined early attacking efficiency with enough defensive resistance to secure the result despite Sevilla’s stronger second half.