The Partido a Partido Podcast

In this episode, Emmanuel Lavogez (@LaLigaLavo) takes a tactical look at Atlético Madrid’s 2-2 draw with Villarreal, focusing on the problems without the ball and how Simeone can fix them.

A look ahead to Sevilla, what they’re doing well, where Atlético can exploit them, and what to expect from the game.

Finally, a tactical look at Atlético’s Champions League draw, the challenges posed by Bayern, Liverpool, Manchester United and the rest.

In this episode, Emmanuel (@laligalavo) and Kelvyn Brown (@kelvynbrown19) look back on Atlético Madrid’s 2-0 win over Málaga.

They discuss Atleti’s approach in possession during the first half and how they were able to play around and through Málaga’s block, before looking at how Málaga exploited some of the same weaknesses we saw during pre-season and how Cholo Simeone adapted.

We also got into the second-half substitutions, including the impact of Kang-in Lee, and how the changes helped Atleti find another level and change the game.

Plus, a quick look ahead to this weekend’s Villarreal game, what we’re expecting from Atleti, score predictions, and more.

LaLiga is back, and Atlético Madrid begin the 2026/27 campaign at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano against newly promoted Málaga CF.

In Episode 20, we talk about what's happened in LaLiga so far, look back at some nostalgia from Málaga, Deportivo and Racing being promoted, and then look ahead to Atlético's opening game.

We discuss what we expect from Simeone's side, how the new-look attack could function, and the key tactical battles to watch.

We also take a closer look at Málaga, their promotion campaign, their style under Juanfran Funes, and the players Atlético need to keep an eye on especially Chupe after his 25-goal season.

Can Atlético start the new campaign with a convincing performance and three points?

Let's go partido a partido.

A new season is here, and Atlético Madrid are taking shape with plenty of questions to answer.

In this 2026/27 season preview, Emmanuel Lavogez and Kelvyn Brown look at Atlético’s summer transfer window, the Julián Álvarez saga, and what the arrivals and departures tell us about Diego Simeone’s plans.

We also dive into Simeone’s preseason experiments with a back five, the 5-4-1 and 5-3-2, the box midfield, and what these changes could mean for Atlético’s attack, midfield and defence.

We discuss the importance of players such as Pablo Barrios, Johnny Cardoso, Thomas Lemar and Álex Baena, while also considering the impact of the World Cup, squad cohesion and Atlético’s challenging start to the season.

Can Atlético challenge for LaLiga? How far can they go in the Champions League? And what version of Simeone’s Atlético will we see in 2026/27?

Listen to ThePaPPod as we look ahead to the season.

In this episode of ThePaPPod, we answer the questions:

Who is Kang-in Lee? What makes him special? And where does he fit at Atlético Madrid?

We take a closer look at his journey, his profile as a player, what he brings to Diego Simeone’s side, and the different ways he could be used in Atlético’s system.

In this episode, Emmanuel and Kelvyn take a deep dive into a season that ended with a 4th place finish in La Liga, a Copa del Rey final, and a Champions League semi-final appearance but still left many Atlético fans with mixed feelings.

We discuss how Diego Simeone's team evolved throughout the campaign, moving towards a more possession-based and attacking style, and whether those changes came at the cost of some of the defensive solidity that defined Atlético for so many years. We also look at the recurring issues that hurt the team in key moments, including defending transitions, set-piece problems, and the tendency to lose control of games after taking the lead.

The episode also highlights the players who shaped the season. From Antoine Griezmann's final campaign in red and white to Julián Alvarez's growing influence, the importance of Marcos Llorente and Juan Musso, the impact of David Hancko and Marc Pubill, and the injuries that disrupted Pablo Barrios and Johnny Cardoso's seasons.

We finish by looking ahead to the future. How do Atlético replace a player like Griezmann? Which areas of the squad still need strengthening? Which young players are ready to take on bigger roles? And can this team take the final step and become genuine title contenders again in 2026/27?

On this episode, Kelvyn Brown and Emmanuel Lavogez broke down Atlético Madrid’s biggest games and talking points from the final stretch of the campaign.

We review the Copa del Rey Final in detail and also analyse the Champions League Semi-Final against Arsenal, including Diego Simeone’s game management and the substitutions that saw Atleti lose control after a strong start to the second half.

The episode also covers the recent LaLiga run against Elche, Athletic Club, Valencia, Celta, Osasuna and Girona, with discussion on the youngsters who impressed during this period.

We also take time to discuss Antoine Griezmann’s legacy at Atlético Madrid and in LaLiga, as well as his importance to France’s recent success on the international stage.

Finally, we preview the last game of the season away at Villarreal in the battle for third place before ending with another edition of The PaPPod Quiz..

History has been written at the Metropolitano! In this packed episode of Partido a Partido, we break down a week that Atlético Madrid fans will be talking about for decades.

Emmanuel (@laligalavo) and Kelvin (@kelvynbrown19) are joined by a very special guest, Rahul (@laligalondon), co-host of the Tiki Tapas podcast, to dissect how Diego Simeone’s men have officially returned to the European and domestic elite.

In this episode:

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On the premiere episode of our summer series, we travel back to the most pivotal moment in modern Atlético Madrid history: the 2013 Copa del Rey run. After 14 years of heartbreak, Diego Pablo Simeone led a group of rebels into the Santiago Bernabéu to reclaim the soul of the club.

Joining us is Ashwin Ballal, author of Made in Argentina, Mastered in Madrid, for a deep-dive into the tactical and emotional architecture of that triumph.

Tactical Blueprint: How the narrow 4-4-2 mid-block strangled Mourinho’s Real Madrid.

The "Costa" Catalyst: Analyzing how Diego Costa’s 8 goals in the tournament changed the profile of the Atleti striker.

Mastering the Set-Piece: The Burgos-Simeone dead-ball philosophy that delivered the Miranda winner.

As Atleti prepares for another Cup final, we look back at the victory that made everything else possible.

Love the tactical insights in today’s show? Dive deeper into the Cholo revolution and get your copy of Ashwin's book here:

👉 Made in Argentina, Mastered in Madrid on Amazon

Emmanuel (@laligalavo) and Kelvyn Brown (@kelvynbrown19) break down the 1-2 league defeat at the Metropolitano and what it means for the massive UCL 1st Leg at the Camp Nou.

In this episode, we conduct a tactical breakdown of the league loss to Barça, identifying exactly how the team exploited Barca weaknesses and where the team struggled.

We discuss the specific elements from that performance that will carry over into the Champions League, focusing on the tactical keys needed to handle Barça’s intense pressure and maintain midfield compactness away from home.

Finally, we debate whether Atleti’s tendency to drop deep is a tactical choice by Simeone or a mental block within the squad. We outline the blueprint for how Atletico should approach the game.

Atlético Madrid produced a statement 5–2 win over Tottenham, and we break down everything from the game.

Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) is joined by Kelvyn Brown (@kelvynbrown19) to analyze the key tactical moments from the match, how Atlético managed the tie, and the performances that made the difference.

We also discuss the club’s majority share takeover and what it could realistically mean for Atlético both on and off the pitch, before looking ahead to what the next stage for the club might be as they continue to evolve under Diego Simeone.

Atlético Madrid take on Tottenham Hotspur in a crucial Round of 16 clash, and Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) & Nathan Clark (@NathanAClark) break down everything you need to know before the first leg:

• Spurs’ season compared to last: why their Premier League form has struggled while they thrive in Europe

• The managerial shift from Thomas Frank to Igor Tudor and its tactical consequences

• How injuries and squad depth shape Tottenham’s approach in knockout games

• Football’s current tactical meta and the differences between Spain and England

• What to expect from the first leg at the Metropolitano and how Atleti can exploit Spurs’ weaknesses and more...

Atleti are back in a Copa del Rey final for the first time in 13 years, but it wasn't easy. We dive into the "Saber Sufrir" (The Art of Suffering) philosophy following the heart-stopping 4-3 aggregate win over Barcelona.

Key Talking Points:

The "Happiest Defeat": How Atleti survived a 3-0 siege at the Camp Nou to protect their first-leg lead.

The Griezmann Glue: Why Antoine is indispensable, not just for goals, but for holding the team together in possession.

MLS vs. Glory: Discussing the reports that Griezmann is pausing his Orlando City move to chase one last trophy in Seville.

Atlético led 2–0 in Belgium and still walked away with a 3–3 draw.

In this episode, Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) & Kelvyn (@kelvynbrown19) break down a chaotic night that perfectly summed up Atlético’s season away from home.

We analyse the rollercoaster performance: the strong, aggressive high press early on, and why it completely unraveled once it was beaten. Why does the team start proactive, only to retreat into a deep block so quickly? Is Atlético too reactive when protecting leads?

The discussion dives into:

• Why the press struggled structurally

• The risks of dropping deep in winning game states

• How Giuliano drifting centrally in buildup and progression could offer solutions

• The mentality issue that continues to define Atleti’s away performances

Finally, there’s a full preview of the Espanyol clash, what to expect tactically and mentally, plus Manolo’s record against Atlético and why it matters.

A 5–0 demolition of Betis away in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals. A 4–0 statement win over Barcelona in the semifinal first leg. And yet, sandwiched between them, two league defeats: 1–0 at home to Betis and 3–0 away to Rayo.

Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) & Kelvyn (@kelvynbrown19) break down whether Atlético have effectively conceded the LaLiga title race and shifted their focus to the Copa del Rey and Champions League. Were the squad selections in those league losses rotation out of necessity or a clear prioritisation of silverware?

We analysed Ademola Lookman’s impact since arriving, what he adds to Simeone’s system, and how Álex Baena could fit into the tactical structure moving forward. They also discuss reports linking José María Giménez with a possible summer exit and what that would mean defensively.

Finally, they preview Atlético’s Champions League clash with Club Brugge , what’s at stake, tactical matchups, and whether this team can carry its cup intensity into Europe.

A month of extremes. Now comes the defining stretch.

Atlético’s season hits a critical transfer crossroads. After a damaging 0–0 draw and fading LaLiga momentum, we focus fully on the winter window: what’s broken, what needs fixing, and which profiles actually move the needle.

We break down how the current squad construction is limiting Simeone, assess potential arrivals like Lookman, Obade-Vargas, and Mendoza, and debate whether these targets solve Atleti’s issues in chance creation, transitions, and game control. We also examine recent departures, remaining gaps, and how recruitment decisions could define the title race and top-three push.

Finally, we look ahead to the Copa del Rey clash vs Betis and why it matters tactically, psychologically, and politically in the context of January planning.

Transfers first. Results follow.

Atlético edged past Alavés 1–0, but the performance once again highlighted familiar issues. Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) and Kelvyn (@kelvynbrown19) break down the win with a focus on player performances, squad balance, and what it says about Atlético at this stage of the season.

We assess the impact of Gallagher and Raspadori’s departures, particularly how Raspadori’s exit could reshape minutes and responsibilities in the attacking line, and whether this opens the door for Almada to play a bigger role.

There’s a detailed look at the Alavés match: Atlético’s continued struggle to kill games despite creating chances, the lack of control after taking the lead, and Julián Álvarez’s ongoing difficulties within Simeone’s current setup.

The episode closes with a Champions League preview against Galatasaray, focusing on what the result means for Atlético’s chances of securing a top-8 finish, the margin for error in the league phase.

Atlético reach the halfway point of the 2025/26 season on 38 points, six fewer than last year and already double digits behind Barcelona. In this episode, Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) and Kelvyn (@kelvynbrown19) cut through the table optics to assess what this Atleti side really is: a team evolving tactically, or one regressing despite heavy investment.

We break down the league and UCL numbers, Simeone’s shift toward a higher press and greater possession, why execution hasn’t matched ambition, and how Julián Álvarez’s role encapsulates the problem.

We also assess January departures, unmet squad needs, and what must change in the second half of the season if Atleti are to avoid a top-four dogfight.

A clear-eyed midseason audit of Simeone’s most expensive squad yet.

Emmanuel Lavogez (@LaLigaLavo) and Kelvyn Brown (@kelvynbrown19) break down Barcelona 3–1 Atlético with a full tactical deep dive:

what Atleti did well early

how the match flipped after key injuries

why Barça’s technical players took over once Simeone’s side retreated.

We analyze the roles of Pedri, Olmo, Raphinha and Lamine, dissect where Atleti lost structure, and highlight how Gallagher and Almada changed the rhythm after coming on.

We also dig into individual performances:

Molina’s progression

Griezmann’s struggles

Sorloth’s not doing great as an outlet

Alvarez’s adjustment issues

The bigger pattern of Atleti losing control after scoring first.

We then preview Atleti's trip to San Mamés and provide a sharp, detailed breakdown of

Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) & Domagoj Kostanjšak (@DKostanjsak) break down how Barcelona have evolved from last season to this one, what the underlying metrics reveal, and the tactical blueprint Xavi will bring into this clash. We dissect where Barça remain elite, where they’re vulnerable, and how Atlético can realistically exploit those gaps.

We explored:

• Barça’s possession structure, rotations, high press & how it’s changed year-to-year
• Simeone’s clearest routes to hurt Barcelona: high-line exploitation, second balls, hybrid pressing, transitions
• How Barcelona can damage Atleti through half-space attacks, wide overloads & Lewandowski’s link-ups
• Key matchups & micro-battles that could decide the rhythm of the game
• In-game scenarios, adjustments & live tactical prompts for our guest

s episode clicks.

Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) and Kelvyn (@kelvynbrown19) break down Atlético’s six-game winning streak and what’s truly driving this surge in form. From gritty late winners to renewed defensive discipline, the guys walk through every detail of the run and what still needs sharpening ahead of the next test against Real Oviedo.

We recap recent wins over Betis, Sevilla, Getafe and Inter, examine the tactical tweaks behind the improvement, and highlight the players stepping up including Giménez’s leadership and Pubill’s emergence.

There’s a full tactical review of what went wrong and then right after key substitutions vs Getafe, plus a deep look at the UCL win vs Inter, Cholo’s first-half gamble, and how Atleti capitalized on Inter’s late-game struggles.

We also dig into the numbers: chance creation, set-piece reliability, attacking predictability and whether this run is sustainable or simply a resilience-driven purple patch.

Finally, we preview Atlético vs Real Oviedo, the likely game script, how Simeone might rotate and the key details Atleti must control to carry this momentum into winter.

This week, Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) and Kelvyn (@kelvynbrown19) dive deep into Atlético Madrid’s international-break reset and look ahead to a tricky away trip at Getafe.

We break down how Simeone used the break to sharpen structure, spacing, and set-piece organisation and which players stand to benefit most. From Atleti’s ongoing away-form issues to the team’s remarkable historical dominance over Getafe, the episode covers the tactical, mental, and statistical storylines surrounding this matchup.

Topics include:
• How the international break became a reset window for transitions, set-plays, and wide-area automations
• Why Atleti continue to struggle away from home
• Simeone’s absurd unbeaten record vs Getafe
• Key battles: controlling Luis Milla, winning second balls, avoiding chaos
• The set-piece crisis at both ends — 90 corners without a goal
• Almada, Baena, Griezmann and the creative blueprint for breaking compact blocks
• What this match could reveal about Atleti’s title credentials

Plus: stats corner, hero & villain of the week, and the bigger picture heading into the post-break run.

Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) and Kelvyn (@Kelvynbrown) talked about:

This week, @LaLigaLavo and @kelvynbrown19 chat about a massive response from Simeone’s men: bouncing back from the Arsenal defeat with a 3–1 win in Europe and a 3–0 clean sheet against Sevilla at home.

We get into what’s changed, how Simeone’s simplified things, and which players are stepping up, from Giménez’s leadership to Baena’s versatility and Giuliano’s confidence in front of goal.

Plus, we look ahead to Levante, talk rotation vs rhythm, and ask the big question

Atlético Madrid bounced back from their 4–0 defeat in London with a composed 2–0 win away at Betis, their first away victory of the season.

In this episode, @LaLigaLavo and @kelvynbrown19 break down what changed, focusing on the players’ performances within Simeone’s tactical setup: why some are doing well, and why others are still struggling to find form.

Atlético Madrid swith two key games on the horizon, Osasuna in LaLiga and Arsenal in the Champions League. We break down how Simeone’s side is shaping up, which players stood out (or rested) over the break, what to expect from both upcoming clashes, and how the outcomes of these games could shape Atleti’s momentum for the weeks ahead.

In this episode of The Partido a Partido Podcast, Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) and Yash (@odriozolite) break down Atlético de Madrid Femenino’s start to the 2025/26 season: from their emphatic 6–0 win over St. Pölten in the UEFA Women’s Champions League to the team’s evolution under Víctor Martín.

We discuss how new signings like Julia Bartel, Amaiur Sarriegi, and Macarena Portales have added depth and quality, the tactical progress from last season, and how Atleti are shaping up ahead of their Liga F showdown with Barcelona.

Finally, we ask: how close are Atlético Femenino to bridging the gap with Barça and what will define their season both in Europe and at home?

In this episode of Partido a Partido, Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) and Kelvyn (@kelvynbrown19) breaks down Atlético de Madrid’s 1–1 draw away to Celta Vigo. We discuss the red card to Lenglet, Simeone’s e to earn a point with ten men.

We also touch on the players called up to the Spanish national team, the key takeaways from the draw.

We talk about Mateu Alemany joining Atleti to take care of the club's transfer market activities

Finally, we ask: Do fans sometimes over-isolate mistakes in a team sport?

In this episode of Partido a Partido, Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) and Kelvyn (@kelvynbrown1) review Atlético de Madrid’s emphatic 5–1 Champions League victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. We break down Simeone’s tactical tweaks, standout performances, and what this statement win means for Atleti in Europe.

We then shift to LaLiga, previewing the trip to Vigo to face Celta, their underwhelming start under Claudio Giraldez, the key tactical battles ahead, and what Atleti must do to keep momentum rolling in the league.

In this episode of Partido a Partido, host Emmanuel (@LaLigaLavo) is joined by Vishal (@janufooty) to break down Atlético de Madrid’s stunning 5–2 derby win over Real Madrid. We analyze Simeone’s tactical masterclass, how Atleti exposed Madrid’s pressing flaws, defensive frailties, and lack of fluidity in possession. We also discuss Madrid’s collapse at the back, refereeing controversies, and what this result means for both clubs in LaLiga and Europe.

In this episode of Partido a Partido, we break down a rollercoaster week for Atlético de Madrid.

In this episode of Partido a Partido, we break down a dramatic week for Atlético de Madrid. We start with the 3-2 Champions League defeat at Anfield, where Atleti showed resilience by coming back from two goals down before heartbreak at the death. We then shift to LaLiga, looking at the team’s first home win of the season against Villarreal with Pablo Barrios and debutant Nicolás González on the scoresheet. Finally, we look ahead to the weekend clash with Mallorca, discussing what Simeone’s side needs to keep building momentum.

🔴⚪ Compact defense, high press, and the fight for consistency, all on the table this week.

In this episode, we preview Atlético Madrid vs Villarreal (Matchday 4) with a full tactical breakdown and season context.

on this episode of The PaPPod, Emmanuel and Kelvin break down the Champions League draw for Atlético Madrid and other LaLiga clubs, analyzed Atlético’s 1–1 draw with Elche, discussing midfield struggles, key substitutions, and major takeaways from the match. Plus, a preview of the upcoming clash against Alavés; current form, standout players, and what Atleti needs to fix to get back on track.

Atlético Madrid opened the season with a shock 2–1 defeat against Espanyol, ending Simeone’s long unbeaten start streaks. We break down the key moments: Simeone’s substitutions, the midfield collapse, and Atleti’s struggles in attack and defense.

We also discuss the latest on Sørloth’s future, Baena’s injury setback, and preview Matchday 2 against Elche, including tactical battles, line-up expectations, and what Atlético must fix

Was the defeat against Espanyol just an opening-day stumble, or an early warning sign for Atleti’s season

How Atlético’s summer signings could reshape Simeone’s tactical approach.

The impact of losing key players and the challenge of replacing dribbling threat on the wings.

Expected tactical shifts between 4-4-2 and 3-5-2 in the new season, and what that means for the team’s structure in and out of possession.

The battle for starting spots in midfield and attack, with focus on Barrios’s role, Gallagher’s fit, and Sørloth’s potential as a consistent starter.

Defensive dynamics: Giménez’s injury concerns, David Hancko and Simeone’s experiment with Pubill as a centre-back.

Squad depth and rotation challenges across competitions, and whether Simeone can balance stability with evolution in style.

Predictions for Atlético’s 2025/26 campaign.