LaLiga: Lookman on target as Atletico Madrid thump Espanyol

Ademola Lookman was on target again as Atletico Madrid strengthened their top-four push with a 4-2 win over Espanyol at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, ending a four-match winless run in LaLiga.

The result moves Atletico six points clear of fifth-placed Real Betis and keeps them level on points with Villarreal.

Fast start from Espanyol

Espanyol stunned the home crowd inside five minutes. Tyrhys Dolan drove forward and delivered a low cross that Jofre Carreras converted at the near post.

Atletico responded through Antoine Griezmann and Matteo Ruggeri, before drawing level in the 20th minute.

Marcos Llorente found Alexander Sorloth, who volleyed home across goal to make it 1-1.

The hosts took control after the break. Alex Baena set up Giuliano Simeone to fire Atletico ahead four minutes into the second half.

Lookman on target again

The pressure continued as Lookman extended the lead just before the hour mark, diving to head in from close range for his latest goal in a strong run of form. He was replaced shortly after by Julian Alvarez.

Sorloth added his second with a powerful header with 20 minutes remaining to effectively settle the contest.

Espanyol threatened quickly, with Cyril Ngonge striking the crossbar, and Edu Exposito pulling one back late on.

The victory provides a timely response after recent setbacks and helps their position in the race for Champions League qualification, while Espanyol remain outside the top four and seven points behind Betis.