Buenos Aires, December 13 (NA) -- Atlético de Madrid defeated Valencia C.F 2-1 at the Metropolitano stadium, in the match corresponding to the sixteenth date of La Liga. As anticipated by the Argentine News Agency, with this victory, the team led by coach Diego Simeone secured fourth place in the standings. Atlético's two goals were scored by Spanishman Koke Resurrection (17 minutes into the first half) and Frenchman Antoine Griezmann (29 minutes into the second half). While the only goal for "The Bat" came from Argentine Lucas Beltrán (18 minutes into the second half). During the first half, Atlético de Madrid took the initiative, with greater ball control and high pressure on Valencia's exit, which opted to fall back and look for quick transitions. At 17 minutes, Koke Resurrection opened the score after a good collective combination: the Spanish midfielder appeared from behind in the area and defined with precision to put the 1-0 partial score on the board at the Metropolitano stadium. During the second half, Atlético de Madrid maintained control of the game, although Valencia moved its lines forward in search of a draw. With more possession and high pressure, "The Mattress Makers" cornered their rival and again tilted the field in their favor. At 29 minutes of the second half, Atlético found the winning goal: Antoine Griezmann capitalized on an offensive play inside the area and defined with hierarchy to mark the definitive 2-1, unleashing the celebration of the local crowd. In the final minutes, the Madrid team managed the advantage with defensive order and collective solidity, neutralizing Valencia's attempts and securing a key victory that allowed them to consolidate in fourth place in the La Liga standings. In other news, RCD Mallorca defeated Elche C.F 3-1. Remaining matches: F.C Barcelona - Osasuna. Getafe C.F - RCD Espanyol.
