Atlético grind out a 1-2 win at Mendizorroza — Grimaldo and Cuti Romero on the scoresheet, Baena with a moment of magic — extending their unbeaten run to 12 games and proving they're no longer a side that crumbles away from home.
Grimaldo opened the scoring, Boyé equalized from the spot, then Cuti Romero headed home in the 87th minute off a stunning Baena assist to steal all three points. First win at Mendizorroza since January 2021.
Baena's whipped, outside-of-the-boot cross for Cuti's winner was the highlight of the day. He now has 4 goals and 2 assists in 8 LaLiga appearances — already one more goal contribution than his entire 2025/26 season in 37 fewer games.
Simeone handed Barrios and Grimaldo starts despite both returning from injury, while resting Hancko, Pubill, Kang-in, and Julián Álvarez. Lookman and Jonathan David led the line. Simeone said post-match that Julián came on with enthusiasm and finished the game well.
Grimaldo and Cuti add to what is already the best defender goal return in LaLiga. The backline now accounts for goals from Grimaldo (3), Le Normand, Pubill, Cuti, plus four assists from Hancko, Llorente and Grimaldo.
After years of being shaky away from the Metropolitano, Atleti now have wins at Pizjuán, Anoeta, and Mendizorroza this season. Unbeaten in 12 matches since the San Mamés loss, and away form is no longer a question mark.