Atletico Madrid increase pressure on Real Madrid before El Clasico

Atletico Madrid moved four points clear of Real Madrid in La Liga with a 1-0 victory over Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday, intensifying the pressure on their city rivals before their eagerly anticipated meeting with Barcelona on Sunday.

Julian Alvarez scored the only goal of the match in the 48th minute, meeting a precise cross from Alejandro Grimaldo at the far post to secure three important points for Diego Simeone’s side.

The result leaves Atletico second in the table on 25 points, behind leaders Barcelona on 27. Real Madrid remain on 21 points, meaning they must avoid defeat in El Clasico if they are to prevent their gap to the teams above them from increasing.

Atletico endured a difficult first half but settled the contest soon after the interval. Alvarez continued his strong run of form after also scoring against Stuttgart in the Champions League in midweek, underlining his attacking importance at a key stage of the season.

The victory gives Real Madrid an added challenge before their meeting with Barcelona. The Spanish champions need a positive result to keep pace with their nearest rivals, while defeat would make their position in the table considerably more difficult and could see them lose further ground in the race for top spot.

Barcelona will approach the match seeking to make the most of home advantage and strengthen their position at the summit. For Real Madrid, the match carries increased significance as they attempt to prevent both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid from opening a decisive gap.