With Barcelona gambling Real Madrid in the Clasico on Sunday, Atletico took advantage at Vallecas, their fifth consecutive victory giving them a few respiratory space inside the combat for the pinnacle 4.
They had to see out the ultimate 9 mins with 10 men after Angel Correa, on instead, changed into despatched off. But simply as they did against Manchester United on Tuesday in the Champions League, Atletico dug in and held on.
They now have a 5-factor lead over Real Betis in 5th and take a seat 3 beforehand of Barcelona in fourth, although Betis have one recreation in hand and Barca two.
Diego Simeone's aspect without a doubt head into the global break with momentum for the run-in, after rounding off an amazing seven days that commenced with victory towards Cadiz earlier than knocking out United.
The draw on Friday ensured the reward for that end result can be a meeting with Manchester City inside the ultimate eight and while Atletico can be clear underdogs against the reigning Premier League champions, they're additionally building shape and confidence at simply the proper time.
"I assume we've got found the important thing, we've got extended the depth, the team is gambling better and that's pondered in the results," said Koke.
"We have grown collectively," delivered Simeone.
Felix has been key, this his seventh purpose or assist in his closing seven suits, the 22-yr-antique repaying Simeone's religion even as Luis Suarez once more commenced on the bench.
This was the sixth consecutive sport Suarez has been named as an alternative and, with the faster, greater agile pairing of Felix and Antoine Griezmann up the front, Atletico have hit their stride.
Rayo live 12th, after making it 10 league games without a victory. They have been in contention for the European spots just a few weeks in the past but now take a seat just 8 factors above the relegation locations.
