By Milcah Tanimu

Saul Niguez’s 87th-minute goal secured a crucial 2-1 victory for Atletico Madrid against Villarreal, propelling Diego Simeone’s side into fourth place in La Liga. The win came at a crucial time for Atletico, capitalizing on Athletic Bilbao’s defeat by league leaders Real Madrid to reclaim a spot in the Champions League qualification positions.

Atletico Madrid took an early lead when Axel Witsel headed in Rodrigo Riquelme’s corner after just nine minutes. However, Villarreal fought back, with Alexander Sorloth equalizing shortly after halftime with a precise low strike from outside the box.

As the game intensified, both teams had chances to score, with Angel Correa and Alvaro Morata threatening for Atletico. Goalkeeper Jan Oblak made a crucial save for Atletico, denying Yerson Mosquera’s deflected shot.

In the dying minutes of the match, Saul sealed the victory for Atletico Madrid with a composed finish from the edge of the box. Although there was a tense wait for a VAR check for a possible offside, the goal was ultimately awarded.

Despite a late scare from Villarreal, Atletico held on to secure all three points. The win sees them move two points clear of Athletic Bilbao with eight matches remaining in the season, keeping their hopes of Champions League qualification alive.