Lee Kang-in Scores on Debut as Atlético Madrid Open Season with Home Win

South Korean midfielder Lee Kang-in enjoyed a dream debut for Atlético Madrid, scoring a stunning second-half goal to inspire his new club to a 2-0 victory over Malaga in their La Liga season opener at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

After a frustrating, goalless first half where Diego Simeone’s side struggled to break down a resilient Malaga defense, the tactical introduction of Lee completely revitalized the match. Coming off the bench in the 57th minute and wearing the iconic number 7 shirt vacated by Antoine Griezmann, the €40 million summer signing from Paris Saint-Germain wasted no time making his mark.

In the 70th minute, Lee received a precise long pass from David Hancko on the right flank, skillfully cut inside past three defenders, and unleashed a magnificent left-footed curler into the top corner.

Atlético sealed the three points five minutes from time when fellow substitute Alex Baena curled a brilliant direct free-kick past the Malaga goalkeeper. Lee’s decisive 33-minute cameo earned him the Man of the Match honors and gave Atlético Madrid the perfect start to their domestic campaign.