MADRID (Interstat) — Atletico Madrid opened its La Liga season with a 2-1 comeback victory over Valencia on Saturday at Riyadh Air Metropolitan Stadium. The result defied pregame projections that favored the visitors.

Valencia’s Alexander Sørloth set up Koke’s opening goal in the 17th minute, but Atletico responded after halftime. Substitute Lucas Beltrán equalized in the 63rd, assisted by Marc Pubill. Antoine Griezmann then netted the winner in the 74th, fueled by Thiago Almada’s assist.

The match featured four yellow cards. The win gives Atletico Madrid a positive start, while Valencia begins its campaign with a loss. Interstat’s pregame models had projected a draw and gave Valencia a 56.4 percent chance to win.