Griezmann: The Little Prince Reigns Supreme in Copa Thriller
Antoine Griezmann's sublime free-kick magic sends Atlético Madrid through against a spirited Deportivo side, as the Frenchman continues his Copa del Rey heroics.
Antoine Griezmann once again proves he’s the man for the big occasion, delivering when it matters most as Atlético Madrid narrowly advance in the Copa del Rey.
Copa’s Crown Prince
When the going gets tough in this season’s Copa del Rey, there’s one man Simeone keeps turning to. After his decisive double against Atlético Baleares in the previous round, Griezmann has done it again - this time breaking Deportivo hearts with an absolute pearler of a free-kick that kissed the net and sent the rojiblancos through.
Let’s be honest, Deportivo were absolutely mustard yesterday. The hosts nullified Julián Álvarez completely and gave everyone in red and white a proper squeaky bum time for much of the match. They deserved plenty from this game, but football can be a cruel mistress when there’s genuine quality on the opposing team sheet.
Goal Machine
That strike takes Griezmann to 10 goals this season - halfway to the magic 20-goal mark that Simeone considers the benchmark for a top-class forward campaign. Not bad for a player who often finds himself warming the bench these days!
He’s now just one goal behind Julián Álvarez, who many assumed would run away with the team’s golden boot after his big-money arrival. The Argentine striker had another frustrating outing in front of goal, and while everyone expected the former City man to be leading the scoring charts, it’s the trusty number 7 who’s giving him a proper run for his dosh.
Interestingly, Simeone showed his hand by removing both Baena and Álvarez while keeping Griezmann on the pitch - clearly recognizing that when it comes to moments of magic, few can match the Frenchman’s ability to pull rabbits from hats.
Keeping Cool
Speaking after the match, a still-sweating Griezmann explained his wonder goal with characteristic modesty: “I didn’t know where to hit it, but I tried to place it and it went in.”
The Frenchman also stressed the importance of maintaining composure in their hunt for silverware: “We’ll do everything possible for La Liga, Copa and Champions. We need to keep working as we are, though the path won’t be easy.”
With performances like this, Atleti’s Little Prince might just lead them to Copa glory yet.