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Inspired Atletico beat Zenit

Madrid - Arda Turan has scored one and set up a second as Atletico Madrid earned a 3-1 home win over Zenit St Petersburg in their opening game of Champions League Group G on Wednesday.

WRAP: Champions League

Brazilian defender Miranda drilled a header under the crossbar from a corner in the 40th minute as Atletico struggled to break down the organised visitors in the first half.

The Russians were more adventurous after the break. Brazilian striker Hulk fired a rocket into the top corner to level the scores in the 58th and Aleksandr Kerzhahov hit the crossbar with a free kick soon after.

Atletico restored their advantage when Turkey midfielder Arda pounced to bundle in a loose ball at another free kick in the 64th and he laid off the ball for substitute Leo Baptistao to stroke home the third in the 80th.

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