Atletico Madrid Edge Espanyol 1-0 as Baena’s Late Stunner Fuels Title Push – Lookman Starts in Crucial LaLiga Victory

Atletico Madrid kept their LaLiga title challenge firmly on track with a hard-fought 1-0 away win at Espanyol on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the RCDE Stadium.

Álex Baena’s spectacular 89th-minute strike, assisted by Julián Álvarez, secured three vital points for Diego Simeone’s side and left the Colchoneros sitting second in the table with 22 points from nine matches (7 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss).

The result extended Atletico’s strong run and maintained pressure on league leaders Barcelona, who sit two points clear.

Possession dominance (around 70%), 19 shots to Espanyol’s 10, and relentless pressure eventually broke the hosts’ defensive resolve in the dying moments. Jan Oblak’s late saves preserved the clean sheet as Espanyol pushed for an equalizer.

Ademola Lookman featured from the start for Atletico Madrid, continuing his involvement after ending a goal drought with a key contribution in midweek Champions League action against Manchester United.

The Nigerian forward, who has shown flashes of quality since joining from Atalanta, worked hard in the first half before being replaced at the break by Álvarez.

While he did not get on the scoresheet, Lookman’s energy and presence in attack formed part of Simeone’s approach as the team chased a breakthrough against a compact Espanyol side set up in a defensive shape.

The breakthrough finally arrived late. Álvarez produced a sharp piece of play and teed up Baena, who unleashed a powerful right-footed strike from outside the box that flew into the top corner.

The goal capped a performance of patience and persistence from the visitors, who had earlier seen efforts from players including Marcos Llorente and others denied.

Baena’s impact off the bench underlined the depth available to Simeone as Atletico continue their LaLiga title push.

This victory reinforces Atletico Madrid’s credentials in the 2026/27 LaLiga title race. With a superior goal difference and consistent results, Simeone’s men remain genuine contenders.

Lookman’s inclusion in the starting lineup signals continued trust in the attacking options, while the collective defensive solidity and late clinical edge shown against Espanyol highlight the squad’s resilience.

Espanyol, meanwhile, sit lower in the table with eight points and face an uphill battle.

Atletico’s focus now shifts to balancing domestic and European commitments, but the three points from Cornellà de Llobregat keep the pressure on at the top.

Fans will look for more contributions from Lookman and the attacking unit as the Colchoneros eye a sustained challenge for the LaLiga crown.

The late drama at the RCDE Stadium delivered exactly the kind of result that title-chasing sides need.