The Riyadh Air Metropolitano erupted in the 74th minute as Antoine Griezmann swept home the winner that secured a dramatic 2-1 victory for fourth-placed Atlético Madrid over struggling Valencia. The French striker, introduced as a substitute just 15 minutes earlier, collected Marc Pubill's perfectly weighted through ball and slotted his left-footed finish into the bottom corner to complete a stirring second-half comeback that kept the Rojiblancos firmly in the Champions League hunt.
Koke had given the hosts an early advantage in the 17th minute, pouncing on a loose ball in the box following a corner to rifle his right-footed effort past Valencia goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala. The veteran midfielder's clinical finish sent the home crowd into raptures and appeared to set Atlético on course for a comfortable evening against 15th-placed Valencia. However, Lucas Beltrán had other ideas, leveling the contest in the 63rd minute with a stunning strike from outside the area that found the bottom left corner after André Almeida's clever assist temporarily silenced the Madrid faithful.
The tactical battle intensified as Valencia grew in confidence after their equalizer, with Hugo Duro and Filip Ugrinic causing problems for Atlético's defense through their movement and pressing. Diego Simeone responded by introducing fresh legs, bringing on Griezmann, Conor Gallagher, and Thiago Almada to inject new energy into his side's attacking play. The substitutions proved inspired as Atlético regained control of midfield and began creating clearer chances.
Despite Valencia edging possession at 53.8%, Atlético proved more clinical in front of goal, registering six shots on target compared to the visitors' two. Jan Oblak was forced into one crucial save in the 80th minute, denying Beltrán's ambitious effort from distance, while the hosts thought they had extended their lead late on only for Alexander Sørloth's goal to be ruled out for offside after a VAR review.
The turning point came with Simeone's triple substitution on 59 minutes, transforming Atlético's rhythm and intensity. Griezmann's introduction proved particularly decisive, as the experienced forward's movement and finishing ability provided the cutting edge that had been missing from the hosts' earlier play.
Atlético Madrid will travel to face Eibar on December 14, seeking to maintain their push for European qualification, while Valencia host Mallorca on December 19 desperately needing points to climb away from the relegation zone. The victory keeps Atlético within touching distance of the top three, while Valencia's struggles continue in what promises to be a challenging campaign.