Jose Gimenez grabbed the headlines after scoring a stoppage-time goal in Atletico Madrid’s 2-1 win against Inter Milan in the Champions League.
Julian Alvarez put the hosts ahead from close range, but Piotr Zielinski equalised early in the second half.
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In a game that saw chances go begging for both teams, Gimenez seized his moment in the injury time, heading home Antoine Griezmann’s corner kick to bag three crucial points for Atletico.
Following their heavy defeat against Arsenal, Los Rojiblancos have now won two consecutive UCL games against Union St-Gilloise and Inter.
As it stands, they are 12th in the table and will aim to win their remaining three games to maximise their chances of finishing in the top eight and securing direct qualification to the knockouts.
Gimenez produced a monumental performance against Inter, and the win could be the launchpad for Atletico to turn around their European fortunes.
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Despite struggling with injuries this season, which impacted his consistency, the Uruguayan warrior showed his grit and class on the biggest stage last night.
Gimenez commanded the backline with his domineering presence, while his passing was also immaculate.
He completed seven out of eight long balls, including four passes into the final third, 10 defensive contributions and six duels.
Gimenez and his centre-back partner David Hancko worked in unison to keep the Nerazzurri at bay.
Up front, Alvarez scored his third goal in the UCL this season, bringing his tally to 10 goals and four assists across all competitions.
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Giuliano Simeone again provided the spark on the flanks during transitional attacks, and his defensive shift was also quite impressive.
Following a fluctuating start to the season, Diego Simeone’s side have now found the momentum, winning six consecutive games in all competitions.
They will look to extend the streak against Real Oviedo this weekend before the heavyweight fixture against Barcelona next week. Atletico are fourth in the La Liga table, only four points off the leaders Real Madrid.
The Colchoneros will face PSV, Galatasaray and Bodo/Glimit in the rest of their fixtures in the Champions League.
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