Atlético ratings: Iker Luque and Cubo score on debut as Nahuel Molina dazzles | OneFootball

Diego Simeone overhauled his side at Mestalla, making 11 changes from Atlético-Arsenal, and was rewarded with a 2-0 win. Academy forwards Iker Luque and Cubo scored on debut after an assured display.

AS reports that Nahuel Molina led by example, almost as a winger. He produced backheels, dribbles and crosses, twice shot from distance, one effort thundering against the angle from 40 metres, and later set up another opening for Luque at 93.

Valencia threatened rarely. Musso had no save to make, the only dangerous effort hit the post, though he took a heavy knock after a punched clearance.

Mendoza missed a clear one-on-one on 15 after a Molina backheel, Dimitrievski saving with his foot. Moments later Julio Díaz overhit a cut-back on 16. Rayane, used up front, headed wide, then on 58 turned a powerful Molina cross off target.

At the back, Le Normand handled the lively Sadiq. Lenglet started nervously but improved, solid with several recoveries and interceptions. Morcillo set the tone with flawless first-half passing and strong pressing on Guido and Guerra, while Vargas impressed and was booked on 60, and Almada took an early caution before departing on 73.

Simeone’s changes told. Luque came on at 63 and, 10 minutes later, drilled in low for the opener. Griezmann and Koke arrived on 73 and soon Griezmann set up Cubo for the second, before Dimitrievski denied Luque in added time. Puric debuted at 97.

Source: AS