Story perspectives

Oblak's Saves Seal Atletico Win, Griezmann Hits 500th, 100th Assist

5/18/2026

Summary

Oblak Saves

Atlético Madrid beat Girona 1-0 on May 17, 2026, with Jan Oblak’s key saves preserving a clean sheet and keeping level with Villarreal for third.
Antoine Griezmann celebrated his 500th appearance and 100th assist with a plaque from chairman Enrique Cerezo.
The game drew 64,396 fans as Atlético must draw with Villarreal to secure third and Girona, 18th with 40 points, must win to stay up.

Summary

Griezmann Bids Farewell

The farewell ceremony lasted over 30 minutes after full-time with his wife Erika Choperena and their children present.
Former teammates Diego Godín and Fernando Torres gave speeches praising his humility and dedication.
Coach Diego Simeone said Griezmann’s rare leadership must be replaced, noting only midfielder Koke could fill the void.
Griezmann apologized again for his 2019 move to Barcelona, called it a youthful mistake, and thanked the club’s behind-the-scenes staff.

History

Historical Context

In the 2003-04 campaign, Atlético Madrid saw young striker Fernando Torres net 19 league goals, yet the season ended without a title and coach Gregorio Manzano was dismissed. The club’s next league triumph arrived nine years later in 2013-14, its tenth title. As of May 17 2026, veteran leadership under Diego Simeone still drives Atlético’s push for European qualification.

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Oblak Saves

Atlético Madrid beat Girona 1-0 on May 17, 2026, with Jan Oblak’s key saves preserving a clean sheet and keeping level with Villarreal for third.
Antoine Griezmann celebrated his 500th appearance and 100th assist with a plaque from chairman Enrique Cerezo.
The game drew 64,396 fans as Atlético must draw with Villarreal to secure third and Girona, 18th with 40 points, must win to stay up.

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