#2 VAR to the rescue!
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology is one that has divided opinions long before its inception this year, with people on either side of the divide making valid points. However, the technology has continually garnered plaudits since its adoption across Europe this term, and in this matchup, it reared its beautiful head once again.
In the 34th minute, Denis Cheryshev blocked a Diego Costa cross with his arm, but the official waved the game on amid cries of penalty from the men in stripes. After due consultation with VAR, the referee awarded a spot-kick which Diego Costa calmly dispatched for the game's opener.
#3 Joao Felix comes off injured
Perhaps the biggest sticking point for Diego Simeone aside the dropped points was the injury to his €126 million man - Joao Felix.
The Portuguese teen sensation was outstanding once again for his team, as he darted in and around the Valencia penalty area, linking up with his teammates time and again, as well as popping shots at Jasper Cillessen's goal.
Sadly for the 19-year-old, in the 80th minute, he twisted his ankle as he fought for ball possession with Daniel Parejo. He had to be taken off to the consternation of Simeone who had already used all 3 of his allotted substitutions. Atleti finished the game with 10 men.
In his post-match presser, the Atletico Madrid manager confirmed the team doctors declared the damage could be serious, and the 19-year-old prodigy will have to undergo tests to understand the severity of the injury.