Lee Kang-in Scores on Debut As Atletico Madrid Beat Malaga 2-0 in La Liga Opener

Lee Kang-in scored a winning goal on his debut for Atletico Madrid, leading the team to a 2-0 victory over Malaga in the opening match of the 2026-2027 La Liga season on Thursday at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, Spain. The South Korean forward, wearing the No. 7 jersey, came on as a substitute in the 57th minute and broke the deadlock 13 minutes later, dribbling past three defenders before curling a precise left-footed shot into the top corner. The home fans erupted as captain Koke and his teammates congratulated the debutant.

Lee, 25, was deployed as an attacking midfielder and showed aggressive intent, attempting a powerful long-range shot shortly after coming on. He has transformed from a supporting winger during his time at Paris Saint-Germain into a goal-hunting forward, while also tracking back to help defensively, as coach Diego Simeone demands. Alex Baena sealed the win with a free-kick goal in the 85th minute.

Lee finished with a 93% pass accuracy, scored once from three shots, and was named man of the match. His performance left a strong impression on the home fans, and with the transfer from Paris Saint-Germain already drawing attention, this opening-match goal is expected to cement his place as a central figure at Atletico Madrid.