Atletico Madrid slipped three points behind second-placed Real Madrid after having two players sent off in a 0-0 draw at Getafe in La Liga on Sunday.
In a poor game marred by playacting and littered with fouls and cards, Colombia international striker Radamel Falcao had the best chance for the visitors just after the hour when his low shot was saved by goalkeeper Jordi Codina.
Midfielder Mario Suarez picked up a second yellow card in the 72nd minute for handling the ball and centerback Diego Godin was dismissed in stoppage-time after receiving a second booking for a high elbow.
Photo: EPA
“The lads are making a huge effort. They have had an impressive season and we have to keep the effort up for the last eight games,” Atletico coach Diego Simeone told a press conference.
Argentine Simeone has transformed the team since taking over midway through last season.
Valencia climbed above Malaga and Real Betis Balompie into fifth place, two points ahead of the two Andalusian clubs, after a goal from Jonas in the third minute of stoppage-time secured a 2-1 win at home to 10-man Real Valladolid.
Valladolid defender Mikel Balenziaga put the ball into his own net from a 38th-minute corner, before centerback Henrique Sereno was shown a second yellow card for felling Roberto Soldado in the area 12 minutes after the break.
Soldado picked himself up to take the spot-kick, but it was saved by Valladolid goalkeeper Dani Hernandez.
Oscar Gonzalez equalized in the 71st minute with a superb first-time shot that rocketed into the top corner.
Time looked to have run out for the hosts until substitute Jonathan Viera fired over a cross and Jonas nodded the ball into the far corner of the goal.
Europa League qualification hopefuls Getafe are eighth, level on 44 points with ninth-placed Rayo Vallecano de Madrid, who won 2-0 at RC Celta de Vigo.
Resurgent RCD Espanyol moved up to 11th after recording a 2-0 win at CA Osasuna.
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