Lookman features as Atletico Madrid extend LaLiga winning run at Alaves

Ademola Lookman started as Atletico Madrid secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory away to Deportivo Alaves on Saturday, extending their winning run in LaLiga.

The Nigeria forward made his seventh league appearance of the season, having scored one goal, but was substituted in the 46th minute.

The result moved Diego Simeone’s side up to 19 points from eight matches and into second place in the table. Alaves remain sixth with 11 points.

Atletico Madrid arrived at Mendizorrotza on Matchday 8 determined to keep pace with the leaders and ended a four-match wait for victory at the stadium.

They took the lead in the 33rd minute through a well-worked move. Jonathan David produced an excellent backheel to send the ball through the Alaves defence, allowing Alejandro Grimaldo to finish clinically.

Alaves levelled in the sixth minute of first-half added time after conceding a penalty. Robin Le Normand brought down Jonny Otto from a free-kick, and Lucas Boye made no mistake from the spot to restore parity before the interval.

The balance of the match changed in the 61st minute when Alaves were reduced to 10 men. Angel Perez was shown a red card following a VAR review for a reckless challenge on Julian Alvarez.

Atletico Madrid used the numerical advantage to apply sustained pressure, but they were forced to wait until the 87th minute to find the decisive goal.

Substitute Alex Baena delivered a cross into the penalty area, where summer signing Cristian Romero rose highest to head the ball into the net. It was Romero’s first goal for the club and proved to be the winner.