Atletico Madrid prove there is life after Torres

Atletico Madrid's stylish 3-0 win at home to Serbian side Vojvodina in the UEFA Cup on Thursday night proved there is life after Fernando Torres.

Javier Aguirre's side produced one of their most impressive attacking performances in recent years as they dismantled the Serbs at a full-packed Calderon on their return to European competition.

Argentine youngster Sergio Aguero and Uruguayan striker Diego Forlan were in electric form up front, scoring a goal apiece, and were ably supported by Maxi Rodriguez and Portuguese internationals Simao Sabrosa and Maniche.

Aguero, named player of the tournament in Argentina's recent triumph in the World Youth Cup, was delighted with his new strike partner Forlan, who like him began his professional career at Independiente.

"The fans at the Calderon want to enjoy themselves and see an attack-minded Atletico," said the 19-year-old. "I've got a great understanding with Forlan and like me he is from Independiente."

Aguero signed for Atletico from the Argentine side for almost 20 million euros ($26.95 million) last year but had a muted first season at the club playing second fiddle to Torres.

Forlan joined the club for 21 million euros from Villarreal in June just before the iconic Torres moved to Liverpool.

Mexican coach Aguirre said he could not have been more pleased with the performance of his new strike partnership.

"They look as though they've been playing together for years," he said. "They both play really well and are going to provide plenty of enjoyment for the fans.

"It was a perfect game for everyone at Atletico."

The Primera Liga side play the return leg of the tie in Serbia on Aug. 30, four days after they begin their league campaign at city rivals Real Madrid.