Álex Baena saved Atlético Madrid from a frustrating draw against Espanyol, scoring a stunning late goal to hand Diego Simeone’s side a 1-0 victory in the ninth round of La Liga.
Atlético dominated for large periods of the match, but encountered a resolute defense and an inspired goalkeeper, before the World Cup winner stepped up in the 89th minute to settle a fixture that was fast heading toward a goalless draw.
Los Colchoneros started the match with intense pressure, creating several opportunities through Lee Kang-in, Jonathan David, and Giuliano Simeone; however, Espanyol survived the difficult opening period and gradually regained their composure.
The hosts almost punished Atlético before the break when Leandro Cabrera hit the crossbar, despite Simeone’s side recording up to 82% possession at one point during the first half.
Simeone introduced Julián Álvarez and Alejandro Grimaldo at the start of the second half, before bringing on Marcos Llorente—who also struck the crossbar—and then deploying Baena in place of Lee Kang-in in the 63rd minute.
Baena needed less than half an hour to alter the course of the game: receiving the ball near the left flank, he cut inside to the edge of the penalty box before unleashing a powerful strike that rocketed into the top corner past goalkeeper Marko Fortuño.
Speaking after the match, Simeone said: “We were always in control of the game, but the goal just wouldn’t come—until a wonderful strike arrived.”
The Atlético manager added: “Baena is a decisive player who is in a great moment, and we need to manage him well,” after the Spanish star took his league tally to five goals, guiding his side to their sixth consecutive victory and consolidating their second-place position.
