Atletico Madrid must 'keep dreaming' after 13th straight win, says Griezmann

Antoine Griezmann told his Atletico Madrid team-mates they must "keep dreaming" after his goal was enough to earn a 1-0 victory at third-tier Marbella.

Atletico are into the Copa del Rey round of 16 after Saturday's narrow triumph and have now won 13 consecutive matches, equalling their club-record streak achieved in 2012.

Griezmann scored after just 16 minutes, tapping in a rebound after Marbella goalkeeper Daniel Martin had blocked Giuliano Simeone's close-range attempt.

Rodrigo De Paul thought he had extended the advantage early in the second half but saw his goal disallowed for a handball in the build-up, while Conor Gallagher's curling effort struck the post.

Marbella improved as the match progressed, albeit without posing too much of a threat, and were able to stop Atletico from posting a more convincing victory.

The visitors did have chances to close the game out late on, but Angel Correa and Alexander Sorloth both fired shots narrowly wide and into the side netting.

Griezmann's 12th goal of the season in all competitions was ultimately enough to see Diego Simeone’s men through and the forward hopes the wins will keep on coming for Atletico.

"We are doing well," said the Frenchman. "The holiday was good for us and since then it has been a tough week of training.

"Now we have to improve things and keep dreaming."

13 - Atlético de Madrid have won their last 13 games in all competitions, equalling the best run of consecutive victories in their history, achieved between August and October 2012, also under Diego Pablo Simeone. Unstoppable. pic.twitter.com/kPXTyenq4y
— OptaJose (@OptaJose) January 4, 2025

Head coach Simeone was not in the dugout against Marbella after his red card for complaining during his team's 2-1 win at Cacereno in the previous round.

It was therefore Atletico assistant Nelson Vivas who undertook post-match media duties.

"We are living this run of wins with calm and with humility," he said. "We are focusing more at the moment on the things we can do better in each of the matches.

"But we are satisfied and happy, not only for the series of victories, but also for the qualification and the chance to continue in this competition."

Atletico, second in LaLiga and two points behind Real Madrid with a game in hand, host Osasuna next Sunday as they bid to extend their impressive winning streak.