Atletico Madrid started the new season in the Spanish La Liga with an unexpected loss. They lost to Espanyol 1:2 away after allowing a turnaround after the break.

Diego Simeone's men took the lead in the score after 37 minutes of play, when Julian Alvarez was accurate for the guests. In the second half, however, the hosts first equalized through reserve Miguel Rubio in the 73rd minute, and about ten minutes later another of coach Manolo Gonzalez's substitutions - Pere Milla, completed the comeback.

Thus, Espanyol started the new campaign with three points, while Atleti will have to catch up sooner or later. In the next round, Simeone and company host newcomers Elche, while the Catalans visit Real Sociedad.

In other matches, Athletic Bilbao defeated Sevilla 3:2 at home, while Getafe won their visit to Celta 2:0. | BGNES