Baena Breaks the Deadlock in the 89th Minute

Atlético Madrid snatched a 1-0 victory away at Espanyol on LaLiga matchday nine at the RCDE Stadium on Saturday. Alex Baena's solitary strike a minute before the end of normal time secured a dramatic three points for Los Rojiblancos, who keep the pressure on the league leaders.

The match was tight throughout, with both sides struggling to break down stubborn defences. The deadlock was finally broken in the 89th minute when Baena finished off Julián Álvarez's pass to silence the Cornellà crowd. Espanyol nearly levelled in stoppage time, but goalkeeper Jan Oblak reacted sharply to deny Pol Lozano.

The Woodwork Comes to the Rescue Twice

The game could have finished very differently had the woodwork not come to both teams' rescue. In the first half, Leandro Cabrera's header struck the Atlético crossbar and left the home supporters holding their breath. In the 60s it was Marcos Llorente's turn, his effort crashing against the Espanyol frame of the goal.

Both golden chances underlined how evenly matched this contest was. Espanyol played boldly against Atlético, but the visitors' late efficiency once again proved the difference.

Six Straight Wins for Atlético

The victory is Atlético's sixth in a row in all competitions, underlining Diego Simeone's side's resurgence this season. Los Colchoneros now sit two points behind league leaders Barcelona, who play later at Real Betis.

For Espanyol, there was positive news amid the defeat: captain Javi Puado returned to action for the first time since January after a long knee injury layoff. His comeback is expected to be a morale boost for the Periquitos heading into their upcoming fixtures.

Puado's Return a Bright Spot for Espanyol

Amid the narrow defeat, Espanyol had positive news with the return of captain Javi Puado. The Periquitos' star forward played for the first time since January after recovering from a long knee injury that kept him out for months. His presence is expected to lift morale and sharpen Espanyol's attack.

Atlético, meanwhile, keep breathing down Barcelona's neck at the top of the table, two points behind. Los Colchoneros will hope their city rivals slip up away at Real Betis, which would make this season's LaLiga title race even hotter.