Cristiano Romero’s header in the 87th minute earned Atletico Madrid a narrow 2-1 win at 10-man Alaves on Saturday, taking Diego Simeone’s side second in La Liga.
Alejandro Grimaldo put Atletico in front before Lucas Boye equalised from the penalty spot for Alaves before the interval. Angel Perez was sent off for the hosts in the second half and Romero’s header late on took Atletico two points behind Barcelona before the champions face Getafe later Saturday. Atletico Madrid beat Real Madrid in a tense derby clash before the extended international break and were able to snatch a late winner to build on that momentum, even though their performance was underwhelming.
Cristiano Romero’s header in the 87th minute earned Atletico Madrid a narrow 2-1 win at 10-man Alaves on Saturday, taking Diego Simeone’s side second in La Liga.
Perez threatened in the opening stages in a tight first half on Saturday, with Alaves goalkeeper Antonio Sivera denying Canada international Jonathan David at the other end. Alvarez, still regaining form and focus after trying to leave Atletico in the summer, hit the post from a free-kick as Simeone’s side sought a winner. His team paid the price when Alex Baena produced a fine cross for former Tottenham defender Romero to nod home at the back post.
Alaves resisted well and Mariano Diaz might have sent the 10-man Basque side ahead as he burst through but the former Real Madrid striker fired high over the crossbar.
