Atletico’s title hopes hit by Espanyol draw

Atletico Madrid’s La Liga title ambitions took a hit as they were held to a draw by Espanyol.

Veteran defender César Azpilicueta, 35, marked his first Atletico goal since joining from Chelsea in 2023 with a stunning 25-yard volley into the top corner.

In a match of limited opportunities, Atletico handed the hosts a lifeline with 20 minutes remaining when Clément Lenglet brought down Leandro Cabrera in the box.

Javi Puado calmly slotted home the resulting penalty past Jan Oblak, registering Espanyol’s first shot on target.

Atletico pressed for a late winner, with their best chance falling to former Manchester City forward Julián Álvarez, who narrowly missed the target from inside the area.

The draw extends Atletico’s winless run in La Liga to three matches, leaving them six points adrift of leaders Barcelona and three behind second-placed Real Madrid, having played a game more than both.

Espanyol, meanwhile, remain 15th, just two points above the relegation zone.

Barcelona host Girona on Sunday (15:15 BST), while Real Madrid face Leganés later on Saturday (20:00 GMT).