Atlético Madrid Beat Alavés 2-1 with Late Romero Goal

Atlético Madrid secured a fourth consecutive La Liga victory after beating Alavés 2-1 away from home in the eighth round. A late header from Cristian Romero proved decisive, keeping Diego Simeone’s side firmly in the title race.

The visitors started strongly at the Mendizorroza Stadium and nearly took the lead in the 14th minute, but Antonio Sivera saved Jonathan David’s effort from the edge of the penalty area.

Atlético eventually broke the deadlock in the 34th minute. David supplied the pass for Alejandro Grimaldo, who had joined the attack and finished from a promising position to put the visitors ahead.

Alavés responded in first-half stoppage time. The referee awarded a penalty after Robin Le Normand fouled Antonio Martínez, and Lucas Boyé converted confidently to make it 1-1.

The home side’s task became more difficult after the hour mark when Ángel Pérez received a straight red card for a foul on Julián Álvarez, leaving Alavés with ten men.

Atlético took advantage late in the game. In the 87th minute, Alex Baena delivered a cross into the penalty area, where Cristian Romero rose to head home the winner and secure all three points.

The victory lifted Atlético Madrid to 19 points in second place, while Alavés remained sixth with 11 points.