Atlético Survives Espanyol Scare with Stunning Second-Half Comeback
Atlético Madrid faced a testing night at the Metropolitano and it was far from the smooth ride their fans might have hoped for. Espanyol shocked the home crowd early, taking the lead in just the sixth minute with a scrappy but precise finish from Jofre. It was the perfect start for the visitors, who had been struggling for wins in 2026 but showed early sharpness that put Atlético on the back foot.
The first half saw the home side dominate possession, moving the ball with purpose but struggling to break down Espanyol’s compact defensive setup. The Pericos were disciplined, sitting deep in a five-man defensive line, limiting clear-cut chances and forcing Atlético into mostly wide attacks and crosses. Griezmann and Lookman tried to unlock the door, but the Espanyol defense held firm, leaving the home crowd tense and uneasy.
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The second half, however, flipped the script. Atlético came out with renewed energy and focus. Just a few minutes in, Giuliano capitalized on a brilliant pass from Álex Baena, firing home the equalizer and sparking life back into the stadium. That goal seemed to lift the entire team. Momentum swung fully in Atlético’s favor and the intensity of their attacks forced Espanyol deeper into their own half.
Sorloth, looking sharp and relentless, added another, threading through defenders before finishing with composure. Not long after, Lookman’s clever positioning and precise strike extended the lead, effectively putting the game out of reach for the visitors. The match showcased Atlético’s depth and tactical flexibility under Simeone, who managed rotations carefully, keeping an eye on the Champions League while demanding a crucial domestic win.
Espanyol, despite their early spark and a late consolation from Edu Expósito, couldn’t overturn the deficit. Their inability to capitalize on chances and their ongoing struggles in 2026 left them vulnerable once Atlético found rhythm. For Atlético, this victory is more than three points—it’s a statement of intent. They remain in the chase for European qualification spots and demonstrate resilience under pressure, a hallmark of Simeone’s tenure.
This game is a reminder of how quickly momentum can shift in football and how a disciplined opponent can challenge even the strongest squads. Atlético’s response shows experience, depth and timing, turning potential frustration into triumph.
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