Baena's 89th-minute goal gives Atlético 1-0 win at Espanyol

Atlético Madrid beat Espanyol 1-0 at the RCDE Stadium on Saturday 17 October, with substitute Álex Baena scoring in the 89th minute, according to LaLiga, beIN SPORTS and PA.

Julián Álvarez, also on as a substitute, squared the ball to Baena just outside the area, and Baena curled it into the top corner.

Espanyol goalkeeper Ángel Fortuño made five saves, beIN SPORTS reported, including two to deny Álvarez and stops from Jonathan David. Marcos Llorente hit the crossbar for Atlético after the break. PA reported that Espanyol’s Leandro Cabrera also hit the bar late in the first half. Jan Oblak saved from Marcos Fernández in stoppage time to keep Atlético’s lead.

According to beIN SPORTS, Atlético have now won six games in a row in all competitions, including five straight in La Liga. Baena has five league goals and two assists this season, the broadcaster said, more than his total for the whole of last season. The assist was Álvarez’s first in La Liga this season, and he has yet to score.

Atlético play Stuttgart away in the Champions League on Tuesday.