Three days after Atletico Madrid won, the European Supercup against Inter, the team is about to play their first game in the Spanish Primera Division.
After Atletico’s main opponents from last season, got their first wins and took leading positions, it’s now time for them to do so. The only team that miserably failed last night was Real Madrid.
Atletico Madrid are unbeaten in their last 14 league matches against Sporting Gijon, winning 12 times and drawing only 2. Atletico have won their last seven league home games against Sporting Gijon, scoring at least two goals in each. However the question is, how tired are they from the game on Friday, and will they perform today on a top level.
Meanwhile, Sporting Gijon have lost their last three opening games of the season in La Liga. Seems like this season, will be quite hard not to get a 4th consecutive opening loss going against such team like Atletico Madrid.
The last three games between the two teams:
08/05/2010 Gijon 1-1 Atl Madrid
17/01/2010 Atl Madrid 3-2 Gijon
26/04/2009 Atl Madrid 3-1 Gijon
Twenty two days ago, both teams also played a friendly match where Atletico lost with 0:1 at home.
What to expect in this game?
Atletico Madrid, looked pretty good in that Supercup final, and I expect them to dominate in this first season game. The sure has built the necessary self-esteem to have ambitions for something more than Europa League next year.
Sporting had a good pre-season warm up, winning 3 out of the 4 friendlies they had, but only with the minimal 1:0. They will sure want to repeat the draw from the last game in last season, but playing as visitor, might be hard for them.
The Betting Verdict?
Atletico Madrid to win @ 1.52 (Betfair.com): After winning the Supercup, Atletico will now focus on la liga with heads high. To start off the season well they need this first win. The team is in great condition and should have no trouble winning in front of home crowd. However be aware that this is still first game of the season, and the players might be a bit tired from the game on Friday.
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