Rioja relives his great goal against Atlético
Luis Rioja, now a Valencia player, recalls one of the most spectacular goals of his career, precisely against Atlético. That goal, scored when he played for Alavés, was an impressive volley that went into the top corner of the goal defended by Oblak.
Rioja describes the play as an example of collective coordination, highlighting Antonio Blanco’s ball steal, Ander Guevara’s participation, and Carlos Vicente’s final pass. What’s striking is that the goal came just minutes after he entered the field.
With Alavés winning 1-0, coach Luis García brought him onto the field in the 87th minute with the intention of holding the result. However, Rioja, in the 91st minute, sealed the match and secured the victory for his team at Mendizorroza.
That goal not only sealed the three points but also represented Rioja’s last goal in the Alavés shirt and his fifth goal of the season, matching his best scoring record in the First Division. Rioja, a key player in his team’s current scheme, will look to replicate that feat and surpass his personal goal record. For Atlético fans, this memory serves as a reminder of the quality and surprise that any opponent can have, even in the final moments of the match.
