Ademola Lookman featured for Atlético Madrid as Diego Simeone's side claimed a narrow 1–0 win over Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium on Saturday, keeping them firmly in the La Liga title conversation.

The Super Eagles winger made his ninth appearance of the season, starting on the flank and putting in a composed performance throughout the first half before Simeone withdrew him at half-time as part of a tactical adjustment.

Atlético dominate but Espanyol dig in

Atlético arrived in Catalonia with clear intent, monopolising the ball with 72 percent possession and generating 15 shots across the 90 minutes. Yet Espanyol stood firm, deploying a resolute 5-4-1 low defensive block that frustrated the visitors for large portions of the contest.

The hosts' deep shape denied Atlético the openings they craved, and it appeared the spoils might be shared — until Simeone turned to his bench.

Late substitutes seal the points

Julián Álvarez, introduced as a second-half substitute, breathed fresh life into Atlético's attack and proved the catalyst for the decisive moment. The forward linked up with fellow substitute Álex Baena in the closing stages, threading a pass that put Baena in on goal.

With Espanyol on the brink of earning a hard-fought draw, Baena fired past goalkeeper Ángel Fortuño in the 89th minute to break the deadlock and send Atlético's travelling support into delirium.

The result stretches Atlético's momentum near the summit of the La Liga standings, underlining their capacity to grind out results even when the opposition makes life difficult — a hallmark of a genuine title contender.