After a difficult 2025/26 season that produced Atletico's lowest points tally in 14 years, there was pressure on Simeone's team to make a strong start.

The hosts controlled much of a cautious first half at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano but struggled to create clear chances. Malaga grew into the match and came close to taking a surprise lead before the break, only for Jan Oblak to produce two important saves to deny Chupe and David Larrubia.

Atletico responded after half-time and Simeone changed the game with a triple substitution shortly before the hour mark. Lee, Giuliano Simeone and Alex Baena were introduced as the hosts looked for more attacking quality.

Lee needed only 10 minutes to make his mark.

The South Korea international cut inside from the right before curling a superb left-footed effort into the top corner in the 70th minute, giving Alfonso Herrero no chance.

"It would be unfair to Alex and Kang-in, because they were both incredible goals," Simeone said when asked which strike he preferred.

"Their goalkeeper had just made two fantastic saves, but that one was impossible to stop. I won't pick one so they don't get upset. They were both great goals, well-executed, we needed them."

Atletico continued to push for a second and went close through Ademola Lookman and David Hancko, who headed against the crossbar.

Baena eventually provided the finishing touch with a spectacular free-kick from around 25 yards, securing all three points for Simeone's side.

The Atletico boss was delighted with the impact of his substitutes and praised the way his team gradually took control.

"We knew we'd start slow but finish strong," Simeone said. "Our work in the first half was key to wearing them down, and the players who came on in the second half, with the quality we demand, were able to finish the job in the best possible way."

Simeone was particularly pleased with Lee's immediate contribution and believes the midfielder has the mentality to become an important player for Atletico.

"He's a player who has to do what the game calls for," Simeone said. "When the team needs him, he'll deliver, because he's a committed player.

"We've seen that with his national team and his other clubs. He consistently gives his all, and the important thing is to help him reach his peak performance."

Baena also impressed with his late free-kick and Simeone rejected comparisons with former Atletico favourite Antoine Griezmann.

"I'm not looking for someone like Griezmann, everyone is different," he said. "Antoine had his own strengths; his teammates have their own qualities."

The victory also extended Atletico's impressive record against Malaga to just one defeat in their last 15 meetings.

Atletico Madrid are next in La Liga action against Villarreal CF on Sunday. The match will be played at Atletico's home stadium, the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.

Diego Simeone proud of Atletico despite loss in epic Madrid clash