Antoine Griezmann struck again as Atletico Madrid defeated to Espanyol.
A solitary goal by an in-form Griezmann saw Atletico Madrid overcome Espanyol to keep the pressure on Barcelona - but they were rocked by a serious injury to midfielder Tiago.
France international Griezmann netted a third goal in two games with fewer than three minutes on the clock at the Vicente Calderon, and it proved enough to beat the impotent Catalans and ensure a third straight league win for Diego Simeone's side.
The Rojiblancos stay second in the Primera Division table thanks to the win, four points behind Barcelona and above local rivals Real Madrid, but the evening was tainted by the image of Tiago being stretchered off in the first half.
Atleti coach Diego Simeone said: "Griezmann is growing, he's on an upward trajectory; tonight he played out wide on the right as centre-forward, coming in from midfield... He has no limits. He's a kid who listens and acts; and the future which lies ahead for him is looking spectacular."