Atlético on the Rebound: Next Stop, Cornellà
After a tough emotional blow and two consecutive defeats, Atlético de Madrid faces a crucial moment in LaLiga. The team travels to Cornellà to face Espanyol in a match where only victory is worth it.
One more stumble could mean practically saying goodbye to the title fight, sitting seven points behind the lead. Simeone will have to fine-tune the strategy after the international break, which affected several key players.
Giuliano is expected to start, while other South Americans like Julián could wait for their opportunity on the bench. This opens the door for players like Gallagher and Sorloth, with Azpilicueta also adding options on the left side.
The confirmed absentees are Koke, still not recovered, and Correa, who is serving a suspension. Espanyol, a rival that is strong at home, has gone eight games without losing at their stadium, including a victory against Real Madrid.
With Joan García in goal, a goalkeeper closely followed by Atlético, the Pericos will try to make life difficult for the Rojiblancos. Atlético knows that this match is vital to keep their league hopes alive before hosting Barcelona. The challenge is clear: get back on the winning track and show that the team is ready to fight to the end.
