Ratings: Atlético win in style, consolidate top-3 place vs. Valencia

Starting XI:

Oblak

Had a relatively quiet night between the sticks, as Valencia mustered only one shot on target. Even still, the keeper was commanding and made good decisions throughout. 5

Hermoso

Especially active in the first half — the defender could frequently be seen pushing forward, aiding in the buildup of multiple chances for Atlético Madrid. Diego Simeone gave him license to barrel down the left and add an extra runner in attack. Defensively, Hermoso did a good job shielding and clearing the ball. 7

Giménez

A particularly strong performance in the backline, always seemed to be present on a block or a clearance. His physicality and positioning prevented Valencia from getting near Jan Oblak. 6.5

Savić

Used his 6’2’’ frame and strong instincts to win seven aerial duels on the night. Often sat the deepest and didn’t do anything flashy, but he had a sturdy, responsible evening. 5.5

Molina

Bailed out on some poor giveaways in the first half, especially on Hugo Duro’s disallowed goal. Molina allowed the Spanish striker to get to the ball first and lift the ball past Oblak, but the goal was disallowed for a foul on Memphis Depay. 4

Yannick Carrasco of Atletico de Madrid celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the LaLiga Santander match between Atletico de Madrid and Valencia CF at Civitas Metropolitano Stadium on March 18, 2023 in Madrid. Photo by Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Carrasco

Kept pushing forward after a disappointing first half and scored his second goal in three games on 49 minutes, connecting with Rodrigo de Paul and depositing the ball inside the far post. 6.5

De Paul

Distributed effectively and showcased his impressive range in connecting with Yannick Carrasco and Marcos Llorente. Had a clever one-two pass sequence with Carrasco in the 49th minute to set up the winger’s goal and practically seal the result. 7

Koke

Worked well to open up his body and break lines in midfield, completing 94 percent of his passes. He was frequently able to find a forward or a runner out wide in a composed performance. 5.5

Photo By Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images

Llorente

Whenever on the ball, the Spaniard attempted to drive forward and either cut inside for a shot or fan out to the endline for a cross. He set up Antoine Griezmann’s first half goal with a subtle ball into the 18-yard box. 7

Griezmann

Scored in the 23rd minute, doing his signature “Hotline Bling” celebration to go along with it. The World Cup winner took a touch forward and passed the ball into the back of the net with his favored left foot. 7

Memphis

Helped elevate the attacking play early with more than one powerful attempt on goal. Was not able to get on the scoresheet but worked to create chances and challenge Valencia’s backline. 6

Subs:

Morata

Assisted Thomas Lemar’s goal after he cut to gain space in the penalty area. Continues to impress off the bench. 7

Lemar

Came on for De Paul in the 64th minute and scored three minutes later, hitting a bullet header past Giorgi Mamardashvili, icing the game for Simeone’s men. 7

Correa

Added some fresh legs and stamina, but was unable to produce much offensively. 5

Barrios

The 19-year-old helped keep possession in the midfield as he continues to rack up minutes with the first team. 5

Witsel

Was slotted in the midfield and helped to finish the match with a clean sheet. 5