Atlético Madrid got an important away win against Alavés on Sunday afternoon. Kévin Gameiro’s 78th minute penalty broke a lengthy deadlock and handed Atlético three points, restoring their edge over third-place Real Madrid to four points with less than a month remaining in the season.

After the match, Gameiro and Diego offered their thoughts on the win.

Diego Simeone

On the match:

“We faced a very tough rival that works very hard and is difficult to beat in their stadium. We got a much-needed win here.

“We changed our system and felt better [on the pitch]. In the second half, our style of play was much clearer and we had many chances.

“They started better and caused us problems up until more or less the 15th minute, when we changed to five at the back.

“Then the team felt more comfortable and we played well. I liked the ability to rebuild the team.”

On Vrsaljko’s versatility:

“Today we went back to using the system with three central defenders because we needed it. Vrsaljko played phenomenally, even better than as a full back, I’ve told him so.”

On the upcoming match against Arsenal:

“We’re going to prepare for the match in the best manner. Now, we’re going to rest and be united for Thursday’s match.”

Kévin Gameiro

On the match:

“It was a difficult match against a tough team. We got the win and we’re still second in the league which is important.”

On the road ahead in LaLiga:

“We still have three matches left in the league and two are at home. We know what we need to do for the rest of the season.”

On the match against Arsenal:

“It’s important to maintain this confidence for our upcoming match on Thursday. We have to keep this up.”