Cristian Romero header seals Atletico Madrid win at Deportivo Alaves

Atletico Madrid moved up to second in the Spanish league after a 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves at Mendizorrotza.

Alejandro Grimaldo and Cristian Romero scored for Atletico, while Lucas Boye replied for the hosts. The result took Atletico’s tally to 19 points, while Deportivo Alaves remain sixth on 11 points.

Atletico took the lead in the 33rd minute when Grimaldo found the net with an excellent strike.

Deportivo Alaves were awarded a penalty moments before half-time, and Boye converted to restore parity.

Romero then decided the match in the 87th minute, powering a header beyond the Deportivo Alaves goalkeeper from an accurate cross by Alex Baena. It was the Argentina defender’s first goal for Atletico Madrid since joining the club.

The result gave Atletico Madrid their fourth consecutive Spanish league victory.