Antoine Griezmann scored a stunning direct free-kick in the 60th minute to secure a 1-0 win for Atlético de Madrid over Deportivo de La Coruña in the Copa del Rey round of 16. Simeone's side, dominant yet goalless in the first half, advanced to the quarterfinals despite the hosts' resilient effort at Riazor Stadium. Deportivo competed honorably but ultimately yielded to the visitors' quality.
Riazor Stadium buzzed with a festive atmosphere before kickoff, as Deportivo fans dreamed of reliving past glories against a Primera División powerhouse. Atlético, semifinalists in the last two Copa editions and trophyless since 2013, started with resolve under Diego Simeone, who fielded nearly a full-strength XI to treat this competition as a fast track to silverware this season.
The first half saw red-and-white dominance, with two shots hitting the woodwork: Marcos Ruggeri's effort around the 15th minute and Griezmann's strike from the edge of the box off the crossbar. Segunda División leaders Deportivo, coached by Antonio Hidalgo, employed a cautious strategy, compact with the ball to slow the pace and limit transitions. Their sole clear chance came via Lucas Mella's cross for Yanis Eddahchouri, whose header was saved by Gerónimo Ruso.
After halftime, the hosts grew bolder with their full-backs, creating a scramble in the Atlético box, but Simeone's team countered fiercely. Substitutions followed: Thiago Almada, Rodrigo Barrios, and Alexander Sorloth to boost creativity and presence up top. Moments later, in the 60th minute, Griezmann curled a masterful direct free-kick past Fernando Parreño, igniting the away celebration.
The goal shifted the match; Hidalgo brought on star Yeremay, and Deportivo pressed with fervor amid an electrifying Riazor. They mounted a late siege, even adding an extra forward, but Atlético dropped deep with José María Giménez to protect the lead. "Griezmann is still more Champions than Copa material. One touch from him is worth 10 from any teammate," noted an observer. Simeone exhales, while Deportivo, though defeated, showed grit and earned a standing ovation.
