Argentine coach Diego Simeone’s side owed their victory to compatriot Julián Álvarez, who scored the only goal of the match in the 48th minute, finishing from close range after meeting a low cross from the left by Alejandro Grimaldo.
The victory was far from straightforward for the hosts, as Deportivo produced a strong performance and threatened goalkeeper Jan Oblak on several occasions. Their most dangerous opportunity came in the closing moments, when the Slovenian goalkeeper saved an attempt by Kevin Sánchez, allowing Atlético to preserve their lead until the final whistle.
The Madrid side moved on to 25 points from 10 matches, strengthening their impressive start to the campaign.
Racing Santander return to winning ways
In another match, Racing Santander returned to winning ways after coming from behind to beat visitors Espanyol 2-1.
Espanyol took the lead through Edu Expósito in the 62nd minute, before Frenchman Jeanuël Belocian equalised for Racing.
Moroccan international Yasser Zabiri then struck the winner in the 84th minute, continuing his impressive scoring form and securing all three points for Racing after a match in which the sides remained level until the closing stages.
