In an emotional match, Atlético Madrid pulled out a 1-0 win against Málaga thanks to Antoine Griezmann’s first minute goal. Griezmann dedicated his goal to Nacho ‘Cholito’ Barberá, a young Atlético supporter who sadly passed away during a match with Valencia-based UD Alzira this past week.

With the win, Atlético moved to within seven points of leaders Barcelona, who drew against Getafe on Sunday afternoon. After the match, Griezmann and Diego Simeone talked about an unimpressive but important away win.

Diego Simeone

On the match:

“We started off strongly, took advantage of our rival’s mistake and scored. Málaga, due to their necessities, worked very well and played an intense match. This was an important win.

“It was an even match, Málaga were always in it. We couldn’t find a way to feel a bit more comfortable.”

On the title race:

“Our team is renewing itself and everyone is excited. We’re in this position because our group is working hard and because the team is always the most important thing.”

Antoine Griezmann

On the match:

“It was important to win. We knew it was going to be tough, but these are the types of matches we like to play.”

On his goal:

“This match was for Cholito [Nacho Barberá], because a loss like that is incredibly sad.”

On the title race:

“We have a match on Thursday, so we’ll rest and prepare for that.

”We need to keep fighting and trying to win all of the matches that remain. Then we’ll see where we are.”