Atletico Madrid`s title hopes dimmed after a 1-1 draw with Espanyol, despite Azpilicueta`s stunning goal.

Atletico Madrid`s aspirations for the La Liga title took a hit with a 1-1 draw against Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium. César Azpilicueta opened the scoring for Atletico with a remarkable volley from outside the box, marking his first goal for the club and his first in three years. However, Espanyol managed to equalize when Javi Puado converted a penalty after Clement Lenglet was penalized for pulling Leandro Cabrera`s shirt in the box.

This result leaves Atletico Madrid trailing league leaders Barcelona by six points, with Barcelona holding 63 points and having played one match less. Real Madrid follows closely behind with 60 points, while Atletico remains at 56. Key players for Atletico included Azpilicueta and Antoine Griezmann, who both played crucial roles in the match. For Espanyol, Puado`s performance was vital in securing a point for his team.

Looking ahead, Atletico Madrid faces a significant challenge in the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Barcelona, where they will aim to turn their fortunes around and keep their hopes alive in the competition.

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