Madrid, April 25
Atletico Madrid remains third in La Liga after a 3-0 win at home to Rayo Vallecano on Thursday night.
Atletico's greater effectiveness in front of goal allowed Diego Simeone's side to claim the Madrid derby, with Alexander Sorloth, Conor Gallagher and Julian Alvarez netting against a team that had as many chances as Atletico, but lacked a clinical edge.
The result also means Atletico has at least assured a place in next season's Europa League, reports Xinhua.
Real Betis moved above Villarreal into fifth with a comfortable 5-1 win at home to bottom side Real Valladolid, whose return to the second tier was confirmed by the defeat.
Jesus Rodriguez put Betis ahead after 17 minutes, and although Chuki equalised before halftime, Betis ran away with the game after the break, with Cucho Hernandez, Isco, Romain Perraud and Ezza Abde ensuring a comfortable win.
Osasuna moved up to eighth with a 1-0 win over Sevilla, marking the club's third consecutive win. Ruben Garcia scored midway through the first half with an excellent free kick, and Sevilla winger Dodo Lukebakio made Osasuna's task much easier when he was sent off for elbowing Alejandro Catena.
The defeat leaves Sevilla with work still to do to avoid relegation.
Munir el Haddadi scored an injury-time goal to give Leganes a point at home to Girona, after his side played for over 70 minutes with 10 men after Seydouba Cisse was sent off for a professional foul.
Cristhian Stauni put Girona ahead in the 54th minute, but when it looked as if Girona would take three vital points, Munir finished after ghosting into the area without the visiting defense picking up his run.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Atleti showing their class again! That front three is really clicking now. Gallagher's work rate is insane 🔥 Still think we need a proper striker in the summer though.
Gutted for Valladolid fans... must be heartbreaking to go down like that. Hope they bounce back soon. La Liga needs these historic clubs!
Isco's revival at Betis continues to amaze me. That man has found his perfect home. 5 goals is a statement win - Europa League looking likely now!
Sevilla's season has been such a rollercoaster 😅 That red card was so unnecessary. They really need to get their act together in these final games.
Munir's late goal for Leganes was pure class! That's why you never stop running until the final whistle âš½ What a dramatic finish to their match!
T Tomás V. Respectfully disagree with the article's framing - Rayo didn't have "as many chances" as Atleti. The xG stats show Atleti dominated quality chances. Still, great performance from both Madrid sides. We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.