Atletico de Madrid vs Espanyol - Espanyol target perfection to upset Atletico Madrid

Posted Friday, November 27, 2015 by PA

Espanyol captain Javi Lopez has targeted the "perfect match" to ruin Atletico Madrid's unbeaten streak.

Second-placed Atletico are on a nine-match unbeaten run in all competitions, six wins and three draws, and Diego Simeone's side have not lost since a surprise Champions League defeat at home to Benfica at the end of September.

By contrast, Espanyol have won only one of their last four Primera Division fixtures and lie down in 10th place ahead of their trip to the capital on Saturday.

"To win at the Vicente Calderon we must play a perfect match," Lopez told the official Espanyol website.

"We know that they are a very strong team in their ground, one of the teams that has conceded the fewest goals in Europe and we know how intensely they play.

"However, if we are able to keep our level and do what the manager asks for, we can come back with something positive."

Espanyol's leaky defensive record gives them little cause for comfort of producing an upset as the 23 goals they have conceded in the league means they have the joint-worst defensive record in Spanish football's top flight, along with lowly Levante.

Atletico have yet to concede a goal in November and Antoine Griezmann's brace in the 2-0 victory over Galatasaray in midweek provided another morale boost.

"We've been working hard these four years and a half," head coach Simeone said after a result which secured Atletico's place in the last 16 of the Champions League.

"We have always had the possibility to qualify one or two matches before the end of the stage. That speaks very well of the players.

"I'm happy for the club, because it is a step forward that makes us happy for the players and the fans."

And defender Jesus Gamez added: "Simeone transmits to us that we have to think on the day to day, which is the fundamental thing for us, that is what gives us the victories."

Atletico could recall full-back Juanfran who has missed the last three weeks with a thigh problem while Gabi's suspension will allow Oliver Torres or Saul Niguez to start in attack.

Espanyol's Victor Sanchez is also ruled out by suspension and either Abraham and Jose Canas will come in to partner Pape Diop in central midfield.