Atletico Madrid has clinched a significant advantage in the La Liga top-four race by securing a pivotal 3-1 victory over their rivals, Athletic Club.
Los Rojiblancos now hold a six-point lead over their Basque opponents, with only five games remaining in the domestic campaign.
The scoring was initiated by Argentina international Rodrigo De Paul for Atletico Madrid, albeit interrupted by racist chanting from the home fans directed towards Nico Williams, resulting in a two-minute stoppage.
Williams responded fittingly by equalizing before halftime, leveling the contest with his goal.
Angel Correa reclaimed the lead for the home side early in the second half with a well-executed snap shot, though he was denied a third goal in the late stages of the match.
Atletico Madrid eventually sealed the victory in the final moments as Samuel Lino’s shot rebounded off the post and was inadvertently deflected into the net by Unai Simon.
Despite upcoming matches against relegation-threatened teams, Atletico Madrid remains on course to uphold their impressive Champions League qualification record under the guidance of Diego Simeone.
