Atletico Madrid picked up three hard-earned points with a 1-0 win away at Espanyol on Saturday, October 17, in a typically disciplined performance from Diego Simeone’s side.

Atletico do just enough

Narrow away wins have long been Atletico’s trademark under Simeone, and this was another example. One goal proved enough in Barcelona, where Espanyol were unable to break down a compact Atletico defence. The result keeps Atletico in the chasing group behind the leaders.

Goalless in Valencia and Villarreal

There were no goals in Saturday’s two other early matches. Valencia and Athletic Club played out a 0-0 draw at Mestalla, while Villarreal were held 0-0 at home by Elche. Both results leave the clubs looking for more cutting edge in front of goal.

Saturday’s La Liga results

• Espanyol 0-1 Atletico Madrid
• Real Betis 2-5 Barcelona
• Valencia 0-0 Athletic Club
• Villarreal 0-0 Elche

Atletico Madrid have won La Liga under Simeone in 2013-14 and 2020-21. Learn how the league works, including its unusual head-to-head tie-breaker, in our La Liga explained guide. Read the report on Betis 2-5 Barcelona.