Atlético de Madrid 2-1 Real Sociedad: Player Ratings

Grbić

Dealt with the opposition’s initial attempts on goal without too much trouble. Conceded to an Alexander Søloth strike in the second half, but it’s hard to completely fault the Croatian, who was left in a tough one-on-one with the attacker. 4.5

Molina

Good chemistry with international teammate Rodrigo de Paul created problems for Real Sociedad on the right flank. Scored his fourth goal of the season after connecting with Ángel Correa and Antoine Griezmann in the second half, as the defender continued his run into open space, giving him a clear shot on goal. 7

Witsel

Most of the converted defender’s contributions came in the form of clearances, or his precise passing to the likes of Nahuel Molina and Rodrigo De Paul on the right-hand side. The Belgian looked to be a step behind the opposition’s attacks, especially on Søloth’s goal, where the Norwegian brushed passed Witsel far too easily. 4

Giménez

Ill-advised dribble up the pitch and subsequent ball loss led directly to Real Sociedad’s consolation goal. Defended tightly throughout, came out with multiple important tackles. 5

Hermoso

Positionally excellent to begin the match, making crucial interceptions and knowing when to dribble into dangerous areas. He made himself an option for a pass, helping Atlético Madrid keep possession. Was less effective in the second half, picking up a yellow for arguing with the referee. 5.5

Photo by Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Reguilón

Made his first start for the team. The left-back looked nervous early in the match, attempting to force plays and struggling to keep up defensively. Settled down in the second half, even having a look on goal, but he was not as impactful as a Carrasco or a Reinildo. 4

Koke

The link between the defense and attack, often acting as a safe option to pass to when Atlético built moves. Completed 90 percent of his passes and showed more composure than in the midweek draw at Espanyol. 6

De Paul

Cleverly found pockets of space to pass into in key moments. His ball over the top to Griezmann in the first half started the attack that led to Atleti’s first goal. 7

Saúl

Started in his more natural midfield position rather than in the back line. Distributed well, often connecting with his compatriot Koke in the middle of the pitch. His run across goal in the 37th minute did enough to throw off Álex Remiro in goal, allowing Griezmann’s shot to glide into the net. 6

Photo by Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Carrasco

Started up top alongside Griezmann, but could be seen dropping back when out of possession, creating a four-man midfield. Looked to take players on, but passed up easy passing lanes to open players more than once. 5

Griezmann

Decisive yet again. Drifted from one side to another, looking to find the best place to strike. Scored on 37 minutes after cutting the ball onto his favored left foot, then assisted Molina’s 73rd-minute goal with a quick final pass to the darting defender. 8

Correa

Had an immediate impact on the game — he raised the tempo and caused trouble on the right side. Correa’s connection with Molina was strong again, as he turned into the ball and got the hockey assist for the right-back. As the match entered the final stretch, Correa tracked back and added some much-needed defensive effort. 6.5

Barrios

Replaced De Paul in the 80th minute. The midfielder didn’t make any significant contributions. N/A