Atletico's title hopes hit by Espanyol draw
Atletico Madrid are six points behind leaders Barcelona
- Published
Atletico Madrid's La Liga title hopes suffered a blow as they were held to a draw by Espanyol.
Cesar Azpilicueta, 35, opened the scoring with his first Atletico goal since joining from Chelsea in 2023, hitting a stunning volley into the top corner from 25 yards.
But, in a game of few chances, Atletico gifted the hosts a route back into the match with 20 minutes left when Clement Lenglet upended Leandro Cabrera in the box.
Winger Javi Puado duly converted past Jan Oblak from the penalty spot with what was Espanyol's first shot on target.
The visitors pushed in search of a late winner and came closest through former Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez, whose effort went narrowly wide from just inside the area.
Atletico are now without a win in their past three league matches, leaving them six points behind leaders Barcelona and three behind second-placed Real Madrid - having played a game more than both sides.
Espanyol remain 15th, two points clear of the relegation zone.
Barcelona host Girona on Sunday (15:15 BST), while Real are in action later on Saturday against Leganes (20:00 GMT).