Atlético Madrid 1-0 Real Betis: Player Ratings

Miguel Ángel Moyà, GK: 7.5

That’s three clean sheets on the trot for Moyà, who has looked so solid and comfortable filling in for Jan Oblak. He kept out a very determined Rubén Castro, who took five shots and was stopped each time.

Šime Vrsaljko, RB: 7

After a bit of a mare in defense last week at Eibar, Vrsaljko was much improved against opposite number Riza Durmisi. He also showed good attacking chemistry with Saúl Ñíguez in the first half, and he sent in the cross that set up Nico Gaitán’s goal.

Stefan Savić, CB: 6

Standout first half, very energetic and got in the way of everything. Was decidedly less involved as the match moved along, but Savic should take comfort from that super opening 45.

Diego Godín, CB: 6

The pharaoh operated as another striker at times, pushing forward into the opposing penalty area and taking a few positional risks. Was steady when called upon, though, as he always is.

Filipe Luís, LB: 7

Linked up well with Koke - the duo exchanged 47 passes, per FourFourTwo - and his combination play with Yannick Carrasco in the second half led to Atlético Madrid’s most “dangerous” moments over that portion of the game. Just another day at the office for one of Europe’s best all-around fullbacks.

Saúl Ñíguez, RM: 6

Saúl was an effective playmaking outlet in the first half, then found himself unable to complete passes at an acceptable rate. His work ethic and running were tireless but at times he was guilty of sloppy, unnecessary fouls.

Gabi, CM: 7.5

The kind of game Gabi thrives in. The captain’s rugged tackling and spirited running served his side well in a match that had little place for quick passing and slick interplay.

Koke, CM: 7

Koke led all players with 122 touches (according to WhoScored), serving as the primary link between attack and defense and playing all across the midfield. Weirdly created just one chance despite over 100 successful passes.

Nico Gaitán, LM: 8

No other choice for Man of the Match. Gaitán scored his first league goal for nearly three months in the ninth minute and was Atlético’s most predatory option in the final third, a willing dribbler who opened up space. Shame to see him hauled off just after the hour, as his 63 minutes were among his best in red and white.

Antoine Griezmann, FW: 5

Griezmann had scored in three straight games in domestic competitions but could not have looked farther from goal on Saturday. Luckily, Atleti did not need him to score; his passing was useful at times, otherwise his involvement was minimal.

Fernando Torres, FW: 5

Just not happening for Torres, whose Liga Santander goalless run has swelled to four months. El Niño didn’t lack the effort or the enthusiasm - not by a long shot - but it’s hard to imagine Diego Simeone can start him in the bigger games in this form. Then again, we said as much last season before he stepped on the gas pedal, so to speak.

Yannick Carrasco, LM: 7

Entered for Gaitán in the 63rd minute. Carrasco injected some much-needed energy into this match and looks fully recovered from his Achilles tweak. Antonio Adán was just barely up to the task of stopping a vicious effort from the Belgian with about 15 minutes left.

Kévin Gameiro, FW: 5

Entered for Torres in the 69th minute. Not too involved, had a half-chance supplied by Griezmann but he couldn’t wriggle free to get a good shot at Antonio Adán.

José Giménez, CM: N/A

Entered for Griezmann in the 92nd minute. Probably should have brought on earlier to help salt away the three points.