Atlético Madrid Edges Past Getafe 1-0 Thanks to Nahuel Molina’s Stunning Strike

MADRID – Nahuel Molina scored a spectacular goal in the 8th minute to lift Atlético Madrid to a 1-0 victory over Getafe on Saturday at the Estadio Metropolitano. The win strengthens Atlético’s position in the La Liga standings as they continue their push for a top-four finish. The match also featured a late red card for Getafe’s Abdel Abqar, adding to the drama of a hard-fought contest.

Molina’s Moment of Brilliance

The game’s defining moment arrived early, with Molina unleashing a powerful, long-range strike that found the back of the net. According to reports, the Argentine international connected with a fierce shot from outside the penalty area, leaving Getafe goalkeeper David Soria with no chance. Commentators described the goal as a “golazo,” praising the technique and power behind the effort. It was Molina’s fourth league goal for Atlético Madrid, and his first of the current season, ending a three-and-a-half-year drought in La Liga.

“It was a fantastic goal,” noted Kiko Narváez, a former Atlético player, via Cadena SER. “He didn’t think twice, the way he hit it with his right foot, directly from outside the area, practically into the left post. It could be in the top 5 of the best goals scored at the Metropolitano.”

Atlético Dominates, But Getafe Remains Resilient

Despite Molina’s early goal, Atlético continued to press for a second, demonstrating their dominance throughout the match. Forward Nicolás González also came close to scoring, but his attempt was thwarted by Soria. Alexander Sorloth was denied by the woodwork, hitting the post with a header from a Baena cross. Molina himself nearly doubled the lead with another long-range effort, but Soria made a crucial save.

Getafe, despite being reduced to ten men following Abqar’s sending-off in the 50th minute for a foul on Sorloth, remained competitive. The incident, which involved a physical altercation between Abqar and Sorloth, added a contentious edge to the proceedings. Sorloth responded to the foul with a slap, earning a yellow card of his own.

Molina’s Near Miss in Added Time

The Argentine international had a chance to seal the victory in stoppage time, but his shot went wide with the goal at his mercy. Despite the missed opportunity, the single goal proved sufficient to secure all three points for Atlético.

Standings Implications and What’s Next

This victory sees Atlético Madrid consolidate their position in the La Liga table, positioning them well in the race for Champions League qualification. As of March 14, 2026, Atlético sits comfortably in the top four, capitalizing on Villarreal’s draw against Alavés the previous day. Getafe, meanwhile, remains in mid-table, with their hopes of European football fading.

Atlético Madrid will next face [next opponent to be confirmed], while Getafe will look to bounce back against [next opponent to be confirmed]. Details regarding match times and broadcast information will be released by La Liga in the coming days.

Key Stats

• Atlético Madrid 1 – 0 Getafe
• Goalscorer: Nahuel Molina (8’)
• Red Card: Abdel Abqar (Getafe, 50’)
• Possession: Atlético Madrid 58% – Getafe 42%
• Shots on Target: Atlético Madrid 6 – Getafe 2

Nahuel Molina, who also plays for the Argentina national team, has been a key player for Atlético Madrid since joining the club in 2022. He has made 112 appearances for the club, scoring six goals. According to Wikipedia, Molina was part of the Argentina squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 Copa América.

The win at the Metropolitano provides a boost for Atlético Madrid as they navigate a challenging schedule. Diego Simeone’s side will need to maintain this level of performance if they are to achieve their season objectives.

What did you think of Molina’s goal? Share your thoughts in the comments below!