Atletico Madrid captain Koke admits they're "devastated" after a 2-1 defear at Athletic Bilbao.

Inigo Martinez's bullet header from a corner in the 86th minute delivered a knockout blow to Atletico, who had pulled themselves level with a Stefan Savic header in the 77th to cancel out Alex Berenguer's ninth minute opener.

Atletico lead the table but third-placed Barca, who beat Villarreal 2-1 earlier on Sunday, can take over first place if they beat Granada on Thursday in their game in hand.

"We're devastated," said Atleti captain Koke. "We looked to get back in the game in the second half by any way possible, we drew level then they got the winner from a set piece.

"We just have to keep going and try to win our next game, we badly need to do that."

Atletico's defeat adds extra intrigue to a thrilling four-way title race, with three points separating them and fourth-placed Sevilla, who beat Granada 2-1, with five games left.

Champions Real Madrid are second after being held to a 0-0 draw at home to Real Betis on Saturday. Atletico visit struggling Elche next before a blockbuster game away to Barcelona on May 8.

"We're still fighting for the title and we believe we can win the five games we have left," added Koke.