Romero heads 87th-minute winner as Atlético end four-match winless run at Alavés

Cristian Romero headed a 87th-minute winner to give Atlético Madrid a 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alavés at Mendizorrotza, ending a four-match winless run for Diego Simeone’s side. The Argentine defender, signed from Tottenham in the summer, arrived at the back post to convert Álex Baena’s cross in only his first goal for the club.

Alejandro Grimaldo had put Atlético ahead with his third goal of the season, finishing a move that involved Jonathan David. The lead did not last until half-time: Robin Le Normand brought down Toni Martínez in the area, and Lucas Boyé converted the penalty to level at 1-1.

Alavés were reduced to 10 men in the second half, yet Atlético still struggled to find a way through a stubborn home defence. Baena, introduced as a substitute in place of Ademola Lookman — assessed as imprecise in his first appearance after the international break — provided the delivery that finally broke the deadlock. Romero moved into a striker-like position and met the cross at the back post to settle the contest.

The result carried extra weight given Atlético’s recent record at the venue. Three points at Mendizorrotza represented more than a routine away win, coming immediately after the international break and halting a run that had threatened to deepen the pressure on Simeone.

Romero’s contribution extended beyond the decisive goal. Analysis from Into the Calderón credited the centre-back with bringing structural solidity to Atlético’s back line, though that broader influence was secondary to the headline moment he provided in the closing minutes.

Elsewhere in the team, Pablo Barrios operated with the protection of Koke and Johnny Cardoso behind him, while Julián Álvarez remained without a goal. Baena’s late cameo ultimately proved the difference, his cross finding Romero and giving Atlético a timely win on the road.