Simeone keen to protect Atletico’s slim lead at top of LaLiga

Atletico Madrid's eight-match winning streak in LaLiga has lifted them to the top of the standings, but Diego Simeone insists they are taking it one game at a time.

Atletico last won the league title in 2020/21, but are currently one point above local rivals Real Madrid on 44 points after 19 games.

Only once before have they won nine consecutive games in a single LaLiga season, between March and April 2014, also under Simeone.

With Madrid not in action until Sunday, Atletico could extend their lead at the top of the table to four points, but Simeone is not getting ahead of himself.

“More than anyone else, we live game by game,” Simeone said ahead of Saturday's visit to Leganes.

“We must enjoy this situation, know our victories and based on what is happening, work in accordance with what is necessary.”

Newly promoted Leganes are 16th in the table and are unbeaten in three games in all competitions. They reached the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey in midweek with a 3-2 win over Almeria this week.

The team led by Borja Jimenez surprised Barcelona last month by beating them 1-0 in their own stadium.

However, Simeone has not lost any of his nine meetings with Leganes in the Spanish top flight (W5 D4), his fourth-best unbeaten record against a single team in the division.

“Tomorrow we play against an opponent who is strong at home… it will be a tough match. I can't imagine anything else,” said Simeone.

Leganes almost trapped Atletico in October before two late goals gave Simeone's side a 3-1 victory.

However, Leganes have not won any of their nine meetings with Atletico in LaLiga (D4 L5) – against no other opponent have they gone more games without a win in the top flight (Real Madrid – P9 D2 L7).

“I see a dangerous team, at home it took us a lot of effort to move the game forward,” Simeone added.

“The coach is working very well and that should be appreciated. They have achieved an important cup victory and victories always provide encouragement.”

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