On January 18, 2025, football fans witnessed a stunning upset as CD Leganés defeated Atlético Madrid 1-0 in a LaLiga clash. The victory was not just a win for the home team but a historic moment, as it brought Atlético’s incredible 15-match winning streak to a halt. Held at Estadio Municipal de Butarque, the match captivated spectators with its intensity, defensive resilience, and surprising conclusion. This article explores every detail of the game, from the key moments and individual performances to the broader implications for the LaLiga season.
Pre-Match Build-Up
Atlético Madrid entered the match as firm favorites, sitting atop the LaLiga standings with 44 points. Their 15-game winning streak made them a formidable force, boasting key players like Antoine Griezmann, Álvaro Morata, and Rodrigo De Paul. Meanwhile, Leganés, a mid-table team fighting to secure a respectable finish, had the odds stacked against them. However, football has always been a sport where surprises are part of the game’s charm.
Detailed Team Comparison Table
| Attribute | Leganés | Atlético Madrid |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1928 | 1903 |
| Stadium | Estadio Municipal de Butarque | Wanda Metropolitano |
| Manager | Borja Jiménez | Diego Simeone |
| League Position | Mid-Table (As of Matchday 20) | 1st Place |
| Winning Streak | 1 Win | 15 Wins |
| Top Goal Scorer | Miguel de la Fuente | Antoine Griezmann |
| Formation Used | 4-4-2 | 3-5-2 |
Key Match Highlights
A Defensive Masterclass by Leganés
The match began with Atlético dominating possession, as expected. They controlled over 60% of the ball and pushed forward aggressively. However, Leganés’ defense, led by Serbian defender Matija Nastasić, showcased an extraordinary level of organization and resilience. Every attack from Atlético was met with determined tackles, precise positioning, and timely clearances.
Goalkeeper Marko Dmitrović was the star of the first half, making critical saves that kept the scoreline at 0-0. His ability to read the game and anticipate Atlético’s attacking patterns frustrated their forward line.
The Decisive Goal
The turning point came in the 50th minute when Leganés earned a corner kick. Dani Raba delivered a perfect cross into the box, where Matija Nastasić rose above Atlético’s defenders to head the ball into the net. The stadium erupted as the underdogs took a shocking lead against the league leaders.
Missed Opportunity for Atlético
In the final moments of the game, Atlético Madrid was awarded a penalty after a VAR review confirmed a handball by Leganés defender Sergio González. Antoine Griezmann, the team’s talisman, stepped up to take the spot-kick. However, his shot missed the target, much to the relief of the home crowd.
Impact of the Match on LaLiga Standings
This result has significant implications for the LaLiga title race. Atlético Madrid remains in first place with 44 points, but their lead over second-placed Real Madrid has been reduced to just one point. Real Madrid, with a game in hand, now has an opportunity to leapfrog their rivals in the standings.
For Leganés, this victory is more than just three points—it’s a morale boost and a testament to their ability to compete against top-tier teams. The result could serve as a turning point in their season, inspiring better performances in upcoming matches.
Post-Match Reactions
Borja Jiménez’s Take
Leganés manager Borja Jiménez praised his team’s discipline and resilience, saying, “This win is for the fans. Our players gave everything on the pitch and showed what we’re capable of when we believe in ourselves.”
Jiménez also apologized for a gesture directed at Atlético Madrid’s bench during the game, describing it as a moment of passion.
Diego Simeone’s Perspective
Atlético Madrid’s manager, Diego Simeone, reflected on the defeat with a mix of disappointment and optimism. “We had 15 incredible games. I’m proud of my team for their efforts, but today we lacked energy and focus,” he said in a post-match interview.
Player Focus: Matija Nastasić
Height and Physical Appearance
Matija Nastasić stands at an impressive 1.88 meters (6’2”), making him a dominant presence in aerial duels. His physical attributes, combined with his tactical awareness, were on full display during the match. Nastasić’s towering header was not only the decisive moment of the game but also a testament to his ability to deliver under pressure.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Matija Nastasić has an estimated net worth of €8 million. His wealth stems from his football career, which includes contracts with top European clubs, performance bonuses, and sponsorship deals. This victory will likely enhance his reputation and market value further.
Match Statistics Table
| Statistic | Leganés | Atlético Madrid |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 39% | 61% |
| Shots on Target | 4 | 7 |
| Total Shots | 9 | 14 |
| Corners | 3 | 9 |
| Fouls Committed | 12 | 8 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 1 |
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Leganés Official Link | Atlético Madrid Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| Leganés on Facebook | Atlético on Facebook | |
| @CDLeganés | @Atleti | |
| CD Leganés Instagram | Atlético Instagram | |
| Website | Leganés Official Website | Atlético Official Website |
Leganés’ victory over Atlético Madrid is a reminder of football’s unpredictable nature. It highlights the importance of resilience, teamwork, and seizing opportunities. While the loss is a setback for Atlético, it adds excitement to the LaLiga title race. As the season unfolds, fans can expect more drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments.
