Espanyol vs Atlético Madrid
We have to win to keep in the running"
- Fernando Torres
Three points for Simeone's side this weekend is a must, as Atlético have steadily begun to lose pace with La Liga front-runners Barcelona and Real Madrid. As a result, Atlético striker Fernando Torres has placed the emphasis on getting three points against Espanyol. "We have to win because we need to keep in the running, given the position we're in,'' the striker told Marca. "We all know how important what comes after this. If we beat Espanyol, we'll boost our league position and take greater confidence into the following match. Everything hinges on our next game.''
A late goal from Valencia last time out meant Atlético had to settle for a 1-1 draw and, more importantly, just a point, as they fell seven points adrift of Luis Enrique's Barcelona atop La Liga. Ahead of their second leg Champions League last 16 tie with Juventus next week - and with just five points taken from their last four games - Simeone and his players know the importance of three points on Saturday afternoon, as Atlético's hopes of retaining their title begin to fade.