Baena's double seals Atlético Madrid's 3-1 win at Sevilla to move top of La Liga

Álex Baena scored twice before half-time as Atlético Madrid beat Sevilla 3-1 at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán on Saturday, sending Diego Simeone’s side provisionally to the top of La Liga pending the completion of the round.

Baena opened the scoring early, with Ademola Lookman doubling the lead before Baena added a third from distance to make it 3-0 at the interval. The contest was effectively over by the break, with Sevilla unable to mount a genuine comeback despite a more competitive second half.

Miguel Sierra pulled one back for the hosts midway through the second period with a volley, but Luis García Plaza’s side could not find a second. It was Sevilla’s first defeat of the season after winning their opening two matches, while Atlético have now scored seven goals across their first three La Liga fixtures.

Baena operated as a false nine at times, drifting between midfield and attack throughout the evening. Simeone credited his side’s recovery and transition work in the first half but acknowledged they lost energy after the break as Sevilla’s pressure grew. On Baena specifically, Simeone pointed to the confidence the midfielder has carried since winning the World Cup, saying the team must now keep demanding that level from him.

Baena echoed that sentiment, saying Atlético had been effective in the first half and that the World Cup triumph had boosted his self-belief.

Simeone also addressed the form of Julián Álvarez, saying the forward is going through a personal process and that the club will continue to support him while hoping he can contribute more on the pitch.

García Plaza left the stadium frustrated by a penalty appeal involving Kike Salas and Hjulmand. Sevilla pushed for a spot-kick, but the referee consulted VAR and waved play on. Kike Salas backed his manager’s view in post-match comments.

The result follows Atlético’s draw with Villarreal and their opening-day win over Málaga, underlining a strong early-season start for Simeone’s squad.