Atlético de Madrid achieved a 1-0 victory over Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium, with a goal from Baena in the final minutes that closed the match. Coach Javier Simeone expressed his satisfaction with the result, highlighting the defensive solidity and the team's ability to control the game during the 90 minutes.
The match was defined as a clash of titans, where both teams showed organized defense and total commitment. Simeone commented that Atlético “played against a tough opponent, they defended very well and we controlled the game throughout the entire time.” Despite the opportunities that Espanyol had in the first half, the rival goalkeeper made crucial saves and Marcos and Julián's shots did not reach their target.
Baena's goal, described by the coach as “an absolute great goal,” arose from a collective play that began from the defensive zone. The striker showed patience and precision as he passed the ball from one side to the other before finishing with a shot that left the goalkeeper with no options. Simeone praised Baena's performance, noting that the player is in a “very good personal moment” and that the team must manage his playing time to maximize his talent.
Regarding the management of the changes, Simeone explained that he sought to “manage the minutes, the effort, we needed legs.” For this reason, he introduced Lookman and Julián in the midfield, replaced Barrios with Mendoza and let Kang-in Lee leave to send a message of intensity. The coach considered that these adjustments were key to maintaining pressure and controlling the pace of the match.
Atlético showed a solid and disciplined style of play, with goal situations that they failed to achieve. Simeone reflected on the importance of forcefulness in close matches, stating that “if you were not forceful, the opponent grows because he sees that he can catch you.” Despite the chances that Espanyol had, Atlético managed to control the game and take the match in their favor.
As for the future, Simeone kept his eyes on the management of Baena's minutes and on the continuity of the good form of players like Jonathan David, who, according to the coach, "does not surprise him" and remains at a high level despite previous injuries. With this victory, Atlético de Madrid advances in the table, while Espanyol will have to review its strategy to avoid repeating this result.