Barcelona 3 - 1 Villarreal (Highlights): La Liga Saturday

Barcelona 3 - 1 Villarreal

They say in elite football it's the smallest details that mark the difference between the good and the great. Villarreal put up one hell of a fight in the Camp Nou, but commeth the hour, commeth the man. Lionel Messi stepped up to the plate, as he always does, to rescue Barcelona from a potentially precarious situation and set them on the way to what was eventually a convincing win. That's not to say Barca didn't display their unique brand of spellbinding football, simply that Villarreal stood toe-to-toe with the reigning champions until the Messi stepped it up a gear to steer his side to victory.

It was a fascinating match, quite easily the most entertaining offered up so far in La Liga this season. Barcelona settled into their stride early on, with Xavi and Iniesta exerting their influence on proceedings as ever, keeping possession and probing with intent at every possibility. Villarreal themselves attempted to pass the ball around and were by no means intimidated. Garridos men pressurised their opponents, keeping a high line and restricting Barca to half chances throughout a tight opening twenty minutes.

Then out of nowhere appeared David Villa, latching onto a fine pass from Andres Iniesta, steadying himself before slotting a composed finish beneath Diego Lopez. The goal made it three consecutive matches on the scoresheet for 'El Guaje', the perfect response to those who had foolishly doubted his undoubted ability in front of goal. From then on it became the Delgado Ferreira show, as the referee lost control of the match following a shocking decision that saw Lionel Messi flagged offside, when clearly a metre behind Carlos Marchena the moment Xavi set him free.

It would have been a certain goal, yet seconds later Barca found themselves on level terms. And what a goal it was from Nilmar, weaving his way into the box before sending a delicious dink over Victor Valdes. The Brazilian has been a revelation this season and it will be interesting to see if any of the big guns come in with an offer for the ex-Corinthians hitman in January. Suddenly the match was wide open and had it not been for poor finishing from Santi Cazorla and Cani mixed with some devine interventions from Victor Valdes, Villarreal could well have added a deserved second before half-time.

After half-time Barca managed to regain a stranglehold on the match, before Messi explode into life with a sensational goal on the hour mark that set Barcelona on the road to three points. Messi and Pedro exchanged five passes on a sixpence, Pedros final ball sending Leo through one-on-one with Diego Lopez. 'La Pulga' rarely fails in these situations, chipping a sumptuous shot over Diego Lopez. Cue pandemonium in the Camp Nou. They had witnessed yet another moment of genius from their master of ceremonies. It was a goal that Barcelona stamped all over it. A goal you would expect to see them pull off in training. Barca make it look that easy.

Aside from the fantasy football, you always felt the match was on the edge of boiling over, in no small part a result of Delgado Ferreiras dubious ability to control a football match. There were some fierce challenges and at one point an angry exchange of words between the two coaches, but credit to both sides as emotions were kept in check. Just. Even so, the shocking decisions kept on coming. Maxwell should have been shown red for a last-ditch foul on Borja Valero, while Messis third was clearly converted from an offside position. And the Spanish complain about Howard Webb?

In the end, Barcelona unsurprisingly proved too hot to handle for Villarreal, and while Garridos side demonstrated they can mix it up with the big boys, they cannot call upon a talent like Messi. Villarreal will be there or thereabouts. Fighting for third place and on the shoulder of the top two. Barcelona, on the other hand, are the team to beat. The first instalment of this seasons Clasico double bill can't come soon enough.

Athletic Bilbao 1 - 0 Almeria

If ever you wanted to watch a match that epitomised what Athletic Bilbao is all about, this was it. Fernando Llorente, the 'Lion King' himself, continued his devastating run of form to score the only goal of the match as Athletic survived two sendings off to edge their way past Almeria.

Koikili saw red on the stroke of half-time for a second yellow after pulling back Ulloa and this signalled the beginning of a second-half onslaught from Almeria. Whether it be the fighting spirit of coach Joaquin Caparros, or the unerring support of a vociferous San Mames crowd, Bilbao put their necks on the line to maintain their slim lead. The introduction of Piatti and Crusat for Almeria, both mysteriously left out of the starting line-up by Juan Lillo, made things even more complicated for the home side, added pace and creativity to an otherwise blunt Almeria front four.

Athletics task was made yet more difficult after replacement left-back Xavi Castillo also saw red to reduce his team to nine-men. But with players like Iker Muniain, Carlos Gerpegi and David Lopez, there is no such thing as a lost cause for the Basques. Roared on by their fanatical support they stood firm in the face of a late barrage from Almeria to hold out for a win that sees 'Los Leones' jump up to 8th, only two points from the top four.

Atletico Madrid 3 - 0 Osasuna

All the pre-match talk had centred around the relationship between star striker Diego Forlan and his coach Quique Sanchez Flores. So inevitably it was the Uruguayan striker who scored two and set up the other to hand Atletico a morale-boosting win over Osasuna. There is no doubt Atletico have strengthened their back line over the last year. No longer do they concede silly goals as David de Gea continues his rise to stardom and players like Tomas Ujfalusi and Luis Perea defy all those who thought the two defenders were finished goods only 12 months ago.

But without Forlán and Agüero banging in the goals, Atleti are toothless. Just as well the two strikers returned to the kind of form that sent the 'rojiblancos' to two cup finals last season, ruthlessly putting Osasuna to the sword with clincal finishes that belied their recent plight. On their day, the two are among the best forwards in world football, and last nights match provided the perfect proof that when on song, they are nigh on impossible to contain.

In truth they were the only difference between the two sides. Osasuna can knock the ball about, but without Walter Pandiani on the field, you just cannot see Camachos team sticking the ball in the back of the net. They lack that quality in-front of goal and unless they find a way of coping without their veteran talisman, it will be another long season for the team from Navarra.

As seen at SBNation: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2010/11/14/1812768/lionel-messi-double-sinks-yellow-submarine

Real Madrid 2 - 0 Atletico Madrid (Highlights) - La Liga Matchday 10

Real Madrid ensured that Atletico Madrid's shocking derby record would carry on into 2011 as two early goals from Ricardo Carvalho and Mesut Ozil sentenced Quique Sanchez Flores's team to yet another defeat at the hands of their eternal rivals. Just like they had done in Milan, Jose Mourinhos men burst out of the blocks with Atletico struggling to get a foothold in the game. And the 'Rojiblancos' were made to pay for their slow start as centre-back Carvalho popped up out of nowhere to waltz through a static defence and slot past birthday boy David De Gea.

Atletico were rocking, and they were still coming to terms with going behind when Mesut Ozil scored the second. Real Madrid won a free-kick out wide on the right, with Ozil curling a delicious cross-come-shot that left De Gea rooted to the spot. At that point it appeared as if Atleti were going to be handed a thrashing, but instead of pushing for the killer third, Real Madrid began to sit back on their lead which allowed Atletico a route back into the match.

Thiago started to see plenty of the ball in the middle, although with Sergio Agüero cutting an isolated figure upfront and Diego Forlan struggling to impose himself on the match, Carvalho and Pepe were never put under any sustained pressure. One moment of controversy to come out of the first half was a possible penalty decision on Xabi Alonso after he blocked a Reyes shot with his hand, the referee deeming the action as ball to hand, much to the desperation of the Atleti players.

The second half followed a similar pattern with both teams creating scoring opportunities, Gonzalo Higuain and Diego Forlan both striking the post with a glorious volleys and Iker Casillas thwarting Agüero in a one-on-one, but there were to be no more goals. Man-of-the-match Ricardo Carvalho left the field early courtesy of a nasty-looking eye injury after he was elbowed by substitute Diego Costa, but that would end up being the only blot on yet another derby day victory for Real Madrid.

Barcelona never looked in any danger of falling to a shock defeat in Getafe as they recovered their best form to run out easy 1-3 winners, keeping them in touch with leaders Real Madrid. Lionel Messi was at his sublime best as he and David Villa tore through a helpless Getafe defence to score two superb goals which put Barca out of reach after only 30 minutes. For long periods, the Getafe players were chasing shadows, as Barcelona lit up the Coliseum with some stunning one-touch football that brought back memories of the sextruplet winning team of 2008/2009.

Messi could easily have had three or four on another day, but he found Getafe keeper Jordi Codina in inspired form. Yet the keeper was badly at fault for Barca's third, playing a poor pass out to defender Cata Diaz which lead to the defender conceding possession on the edge of his box, and then failing to block Pedro's run on goal, leaving the Barca man with a simple tap in. Getafe were handed a lifeline on 70 minutes when Pique was sent off for handling in the box, Manu reducing the deficit from the spot. Then Getafe received a red card of their own, Derek Boateng seeing a second yellow, and with him went Getafes hopes of rescuing anything from the match.

Villarreal fell behind to an early Fernando Llorente goal, but the 'Yellow Submarine' were ultimately too much for Athletic Bilbao from then on, creating countless chances and scoring four. At times it was incessant pressure from Villarreal, Borja Valero controlling proceedings in midfield and Guiseppe Rossi a constant menace in attack. Nilmar levelled the match on 39 minutes, and a shocking error from Bilbao keeper Gorka Iraizoz let the home side take a half-time lead, as his dreadful clearance fell straight at the feet of Santi Cazorla, who made no mistake with a first-time shot.

The second half saw Villarreal at their vibrant best, carving through Athletic Bilbao at will. Guiseppe Rossi had been guilty of some poor finishing throughout the match, but he made no mistake with only five minutes left to make the points safe. Substitute Jefferson Montero then gave the scoreline a more realistic look with a fourth in the dying seconds of the match.

In the weekends other matches, Espanyol maintained their fantastic start to the season with a 35 yard scorcher from Javi Marquez after only a minute enough for a victory over Malaga which leaves 'Los Pericos' in the Champions League spots and Malaga rooted to the bottom of La Liga. Manuel Pellegrini has a hell of a job on his hands at La Rosaleda. Real Zaragoza relieved some of the pressure on manager Jose Aurelio Gay, but they had to come from behind twice to eventually overcome Mallorca with a last minute penalty from Gabi. Real Sociedad had Joseba Llorente to thank as the striker scored the only goal of their match against Racing Santander, a win that places the Basque club in the European positions.

Osasuna finally found their shooting boots for the visit of Hercules, Monreal, Lolo and Vadocz getting the goals to give the home team a 3-0 win which lifts them into mid-table. Deportivo La Coruña finally put to bed their disastrous away form which had seen them fail to win away from El Riazor for over a year. Riki and Aythami got the goals which consigned Levante to a 1-2 defeat which keeps the newly promoted side in the relegation zone. Finally, Sporting Gijon and Almeria had to settle for a point apiece, Nacho Novo notching a late equaliser to cancel out Almerias opener from Miguel Corona. It was just reward for an improved second half showing by Sporting after Almeria had dominated the first 45 minutes.

As seen on SB Nation: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2010/11/8/1800225/la-liga-matchday-10-real-madrid-take-the-derby-honours-villa-and

La Liga Matchday 9: Villarreal and Valencia unable to keep the pace

A nice little round up of the rest of the matches this weekend in La Liga which saw Real Madrid and Barcelona begin to pull away from the pack.

Valencia 1 - 1 Real Zaragoza

It was only three weeks ago that Valencia were sitting pretty at the top of La Liga after a storming start to the season which saw them win five and draw one out of their first six league fixtures. Then came defeats to Barcelona and Mallorca and suddenly the boat began to rock. Tonight was the perfect chance for Unai Emerys side to get back on track as the Liga whipping boys, Real Zaragoza, came to town. Things didn't get off to the best of starts for Valencia as Zaragoza centre-back Mauricio Lanzaro neatly spun and fired in from just inside the area after only 2 minutes. Jose Aurelio Gays side played their best football of the season so far, with Jorge Lopez and Angel Lafita both in the thick of the action, yet they still went into the break all square. Lanzaro undoing all his good work with the opener, as he comically headed past his keeper to bring Valencia back into it. The second half saw Valencia struggle to find any rythym, as the man who makes them tick over, Ever Banega, never got into the match. Even the introduction of striker Roberto Soldado and the ludicrous sending off of Real Zaragoza midfielder Ander Herrera failed to spark them into life. There is talk of pressure on manager Unai Emery, but I wouldn't read too much into it. Fourth in the league and looking good to qualify out of their group in the Champions League is hardly a crisis. For Jose Aurelio Gay, he'll be hoping this is the beginning of a revival as they fight to lift themselves off the foot of the table.

Atletico Madrid 1 - 1 Almeria

Not the best of derby day preparations for Atletico Madrid as they let a 1-0 lead slip at home to Almeria. Sergio Agüero got the opener for 'Los Colchoneros', finally getting off the mark for the season with a simple tap-in, but his team suffered two lethal blows before halftime that they simply couldn't recover from. Blossoming young talent Pablo Piatti grabbed a tasty equaliser for Almeria, a sweet volley after a cleared corner came to him on the edge of the box, and shortly after Jose Antonio Reyes pulled up with a calf strain. Atletico will be even more stretched for their trip to the Bernabeu as giant defender Luis Perea is ruled out through suspension. Quique will need his frontmen Agüero and Forlan more than ever next weekend.

Sporting Gijon 1 - 1 Villarreal

Villarreal had done a good job of sandwiching themselves between Real Madrid and Barcelona for a while there. But just when we were hoping at least one of them or Valencia could maintain a challenge at the top, both start to fade away. That's not to take anything away from Sporting, who more than contributed to a feisty match full of meaty challenges and lung-busting effort. In the end the points were shared with a penalty apiece, Villarreals scored with pretty much the last kick of the match, converted by goal machine Guiseppe Rossi. Not the most attractive of matches, although the rain and some more poor refereeing didn't allow it to be.

Deportivo La Coruña 3 - 0 Espanyol

If Espanyol had won today they would have leaped up into the giddy heights of the Champions League spots. Yet with Depor reverting back to a more accustomed (and secure) back five and Espanyol without their hitman Osvaldo this was always unlikely. And so it proved as the home side recorded their first home win of the season to haul themselves closer to safety at the foot of the table. Spain Under-21 striker Adrian slotting in the first when a corner caused mayhem in the Espanyol box. Then two of Depors centre-backs got in on the act late in the match to make the three points safe. The pressure has been lifted off Miguel Angel Lotina. For now at least.

Racing Santander 4 - 1 Osasuna

If Osasuna stay up this season, it will be through sheer grit and determination because they are seriously lacking in any quality. Racing Santander have struggled badly so far, yet they were given the freedom of El Sardinero as their Swedish stars Kennedy Bakircioglu (try saying that name after a couple of pints) and Markus Rosenburg scored three of Racings four to send Camachos men back to Pamplona empty-handed. Osasuna weren't helped by the absence of their only goal threat, Walter Pandiani, but they simply cannot rely on a veteran to keep them up. Racing leap up to mid-table with a vital win over a direct rival for relegation.

Athletic Bilbao 3 - 0 Getafe

Amazing as it may seem, Athletic Bilbao scored three goals tonight and Fernando Llorente didn't get one of them. The Basque team have always been known for their fighting qualities but in players such as Llorente, Susaeta, Iraola and Muniain they have some serious quality to add to their considerable bite. Their performance tonight was as intense as they come and Getafe did their best impression of rabbits in the headlights. Atheltic raced into an early 2-0 lead through Iraola and San Jose. It was a lead that they never looked like giving up and to make sure Gabilondo added a late third. All manager Jose Caparros needs to do now is get his team to replicate these performances away from the intimidating San Mames.

Malaga 1 - 2 Real Sociedad

Many teams make the leap from La Segunda to the top flight without the sufficient quality to stay up. Real Sociedad break that mould and with players such as Joseba Llorente, Antoine Griezmann and Xabi Prieto I fully expect them to maintain their La Liga status come what May. Still, you should not read too much into a victory at La Rosaleda, a stadium where all away teams walk away with three points in the bag. Malaga fans must be sick of seeing their team unable to repeat their electric away performances at home as they make it five defeats from five. 21 goals conceded in nine matches tell you all you need to know about where it's all going wrong. For Real Sociedad, goals from Llorente and Griezmann were enough to edge their team into the top half of the table.

As seen on SB Nation: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2010/10/31/1784146/la-liga-matchday-9-david-villa-back-in-the-goals-as-pressure-mounts

La Liga Matchday 6: Valencia and Villarreal lead the way

Valencia 2 - 1 Athletic Bilbao

(1-0) 10' Aduriz, (2-0) 91' Vicente, (2-1) 93' Gabilondo

Valencia are showing no signs of letting up at the top of La Liga as they made it 16 points out of 18 with a win over Athletic Bilbao that should have been wrapped up before half-time. Aduriz and Soldado combined for the first but having faded badly after the break they had to wait until injury time to confirm the three points. Unai Emerys team have been unstoppable in the league and after Barcas recent home form they'll be confident of getting something from the Camp Nou in two weeks time.

Villarreal 2 - 0 Racing Santander

(1-0) 8' Nilmar, (2-0) 13' Rossi

The hottest front pairing in La Liga scored two early goals that were enough for Villarreal to see of Racing Santander at the Madrigal. Racing never looked like scoring in a million years and so it was that Nilmar and Rossi, aided by the talented Cazorla and Valero, settled the match after only 13 minutes. Five wins in the last five for the Yellow Submarine sees them jump up to second.

Sevilla 3 - 1 Atletico Madrid

(1-0) 28' Negredo, (2-0) 35' Perotti, (3-0) 51' Kanoute, (3-1) 57' Diego Costa

In a match that was presided by a verbal battle between Gregorio Manzano and Quique Sanchez Flores, Atleticos defensive lapses reappeared as they were ripped apart by a rampant Sevilla. Alvaro Negredo was a constant thorn in their side, curling home a stunning first and laying on the third for Kanoute. It's amazing what a change of manager can do to a team in crisis.

Real Zaragoza 2 - 2 Sporting Gijon

(0-1) 32' Obradevic (o.g), (0-2) 48' Diego Castro (p), (1-2) 56' Sinama-Pongolle, (2-2) 61' Sinama-Pongolle

Real Zaragoza may be second bottom. And they may be in the midst of their third worst start to a season ever, but they can take a huge amount of credit from this match as they came from two down and a man down to rescue a point against the wasteful Sporting Gijon. Jiri Jarosiks ludicrous tackle from behind seemed to have killed off Zaragoza, and Jose Aurelio Gays stay on the Romareda bench, but Sinama-Pongolle, who hadnt netted in La Liga since January 2009, blasted in two goals in five minutes to save his managers bacon and lift his team off the foot of the table. Still, this shouldn't disguise yet another sub-standard performance which only served the confirm the monumental struggle Real Zaragoza are going to endure this season.

Almeria 1 - 1 Malaga

(0-1) 50' Quincy, (1-1) 76' Uche

Osasuna 1 - 1 Levante

(1-0) 72' Pandiani, (1-1) 79' Sergio

Getafe 3 - 0 Hercules

(1-0) 20' Parejo, (2-0) 42' Manu, (3-0) 81' Miku

Real Sociedad 1 - 0 Espanyol

(1-0) 83' Forlin (o.g)

EUROPA LEAGUE: Atletico Madrid 1 - 1 Bayern Leverkusen (Highlights)

Atletico Madrid 1 - 1 Bayern Leverkusen
(0-1) 39' Derdiyok, (1-1) 51' Simao (p)

Atletico Madrid complicate matters with a draw against Bayer Leverkusen in their second group tie of the competition. With Sergio Agüero left out as a precaution, Bayer took the lead just before half-time with a well drilled shot in the area. After a dismal first 45 minutes, Atletico came out a different side in the second half and it didn't take them long to draw level through Simaos penalty. Tiago made an impression when he came on, but with the game wide open any one of the two teams could have gone on to get a decisive winner. As it was the match ended in a draw and Atletico are now obliged to start picking up wins if they want to make it out of the group.

Borussia Dortmund 0 - 1 Sevilla

(0-1) 46' Cigarini

Vital win for Sevilla in Germany as Italian Luca Cigarini grabbed the all-important goal in the Westfalenstadion. Gregorio Manzano didn't waste any time in his first match on the Sevilla bench, breathing new life into a souless set of players at half time. And it only took them a matter of seconds to get the winning goal, Cigarini taking advantage of a loose ball in the area to slot in and put his team back on track in the Europe League. Soon after Dortmund defender Schmelzer saw red, which allowed the Nervionenses to dominate the second half and leave with the three points that were so essential to any hopes they had of staying in the Europa League beyond the group stages.



Young Boys 2 - 0 Getafe

(1-0) 10' Degen, (2-0) 63' Degen

Shocking performance from Michels Getafe team which sees the Madrid outfit take a step backwards after their opening round win. With Pedro Leon and Roberto Soldado sold over the summer, Getafe are seriously lacking in quality this year, so it will be a test of Michels managerial ability whether or not 'Eurogeta' suffer this season.

Villarreal 2 - 1 Club Brugge

(1-0) 10' Rossi, (1-1) 46' Donk, (2-1) 56' Gonzalo

Villarreal survived a barrage of brutal tackles from Brugge to sneak past the Belgians courtesy of Gonzalos 56th minute strike. Villarreal outclassed their rivals who were left with no choice but to resort to dirty tactics to stop the Yellow Submarine. Cani was injured by a shocking challenge and Vargas was sent off for Brugge. Guiseppe Rossi continues his impressive start to the season with another goal. The Italian/American is on fire.

LA LIGA: Barcelona 1 - 0 Sporting Gijon (Highlights)

Barcelona 1 - 0 Sporting Gijon
(1-0) 49' Villa

Atletico Madrid 1 - 1 Valencia

(1-0) 19' Simao, (1-1) 83' Aduriz

Real Zaragoza 0 - 0 Hercules

Almeria 0 - 1 Levante

(0-1) 39' Sergio

Sevilla 1 - 1 Racing Santander
(1-0) 13' Negredo (p), (1-1) 54' Pinillos

Villarreal 1 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña
(1-0) 33' Nilmar

Getafe 0 - 2 Malaga
(0-1) 54' Rondon, (0-2) 62' Apoño (p)

Atletico Madrid 1 - 2 Barcelona (Highlights)

Atletico Madrid 1 - 2 Barcelona
(0-1) 13' Messi, (1-1) 25' Raul Garcia, (1-2) 32' Pique

Having lost in the Vicente Calderon on their last three visits, Pep Guardiola finally broke his duck at the home of Atletico Madrid, but it came at a cost. Lionel Messi had been his usual magnificent self, scoring the first and forcing the corner which lead to Piques strike. Barcelona rolled out some champagne football, but Atletico more than contributed to a feisty contest which ended with Tomas Ujfalusi planting the sole of his foot on Messis ankle, a tackle which lead to the Czech defender seeing a straight red and which will see Messi miss the next ten days of action.

Atletico put their UEFA Europa League flop behind them with a commited display, coming from behind to equalise through Raul Garcias header. The talk of the build up was whether Sergio Agüero would make it in time for the match. He did, but he clearly wasn't match fit and was hauled off after 50 minutes. It wasn't one of those vintage displays from Barcelona, but ultimately their sporadic flashes of class were enough to see off the Colchoneros, with David De Gea pulling off some world class saves in the second half to keep the defecit respectable. The young keepers mantle as Iker Casillas' heir to the throne in the Spanish national side is gathering more and more weight by the day. Pep Guardiola claimed after the match that if Atleti show this much fight in all their matches, they'll be contenders for the league. Post-match goodwill or not, you can't help but agree. Trouble is, can they maintain this form over the course of a season?

Tonights other results:

Malaga 1 - 2 Sevilla
(1-0) 14' Rondon, (1-1) 19' Alfaro, (1-2) 46' Caceres

Racing Santander 2 - 0 Real Zaragoza
(1-0) 76' Henrique, (2-0) 90' Ariel

Levante 1 - 2 Villarreal
(0-1) 16' Nilmar, (0-2) 42' Nilmar, (1-2)  90' Caicedo

Hercules 1 - 2 Valencia

(0-1) 2' Mata, (0-2) 23' Pablo Hernandez, (1-2) 43' Trezeguet (p)

EUROPA LEAGUE: Aris Salonika 1 - 0 Atletico Madrid (Highlights)

Not a great night for the La Liga contingent as Atletico Madrid, Sevilla and Villarreal all slumped to defeat, with only little Getafe maintaining pride for the Spanish quartet. Ironically, Atletico Madrid were downed by two Spaniards, with Hector Cupers tactics and Javitos screamer (see video) sending the Liga leaders home pointless. Not the result everyone was expecting after their riproaring start to the season. Villarreal came a cropper in the Ukraine as Juan Garrido rang the changes, giving starts to back-up strikers Marco Ruben and Jozy Altidore. But Dinamo Zagreb were just too good for the Yellow Submarine, as Brazilian schemer Jorge Sammir stole the show with a goal and assist as they ran out easy 2-0 winners.

Sevillas ongoing European nightmare continued as a late goal from Nene for Paris St Germain punished a drab performance from Alvaro Alvarezs team which earned them a good few jeers once the final whistle was blown. More is expected from trhe likes of Luis Fabiano, Jesus Navas and Frederic Kanoute, and Del Nido knows it. So it was left to Getafe to pick up the only Spanish points of the night as they overcame a shocking first half to stick two goals past Danish side Odense, who had a familiar face in goal: only Roy Carroll! Arizmendi and ex-Xerez man Pedro Rios with the second half strikes.

Aris Salonika 1 - 0 Atletico Madrid

(1-0) 59' Javito

Dinamo Zagreb 2 - 0 Villarreal

(1-0) 18' Rukavina,  (2-0) 80' Sammir

Sevilla 0 - 1 PSG

(0-1) 76' Nene

Getafe 2 - 1 Odense

(0-1) 43' Andreasen, (1-1) 50' Arizmendi, (2-1) 80' Pedro Rios

LA LIGA MATCHDAY 2: Hercules shock Barcelona at Camp Nou (Highlights)

Barcelona 0 - 2 Hercules
(0-1) 26' Valdez, (0-2) 58' Valdez

No one can say they saw that coming. Unless your name is Esteban Vigo of course. When the Hercules manager stated midweek that his team would only be happy with a win in the Camp Nou, there was a deathly silence followed by howls of derision. No-one had won there last season so how on earth were newly-promoted Hercules going to. You'll be lucky if you're not on the end of a thrashing thought the rest of Spain. But had they read the history books? The last time Hercules were in the top flight, they did the league double over Barcelona. An own goal by Pep Guardiola in the Camp Nou to boot. And he committed another own goal today when he messed around with a winning formula to give a debut to Javier Mascherano, who had a miserable first half before being hauled off at half-time. A foul from the Argentine led to Hercules' opener, and in all fairness he was lucky not to be shown red having already been on a yellow. Another reckless purchase to rival big Zlatan?

Perhaps it was the fact that half his team had been involved in a meaningless friendly in Argentina days before. Maybe it was the herculean effort from keeper Juan Calatayud. But whatever it was, Barcelona were utterly incapable of breaking down a stubborn away backline. So it was left to Paraguayan striker Nelson Valdez, (remember the name!) to mark his debut in the grandest of manners with a clinical double which grabbed his side the points and the weekends headlines. David Trezeguet and young sub Kiko (the kid looked extremely useful in a late cameo) even had gilt-edged chances to make it three. A surreal match the like of which we probably won't see again too soon. How many times will you see Victor Valdes saving Barcelona from a hiding at home against a new boy in town? Massive slip for Barca and they now slide a point behind Real Madrid.

Real Madrid 1 - 0 Osasuna

(1-0) 48' Carvalho

You look at the Real Madrid line-up and it has GOAL written all over it. In Cristiano Ronaldo, Gonzalo Higuain and Karim Benzema they have at least 60 goals a season guaranteed. Slightly surprising then that Real Madrid struggled past Osasuna with a goal from new centre back Ricardo Carvalho, so far the only man to get on the scoresheet for 'Los Merengues' this season. Higuain was once again wasteful infront of goal, while Cristiano struggled to get into the game on his return from an ankle injury. Mourinhos team still havn't got into their stride yet but they had enough to see off Jose Antonio Camachos predictably rugged team, with Mesut Özil wooing the Berbabeu crowd with a cultured home debut full of attacking vivacity which earned the ex-Bremen man a well-deserved ovation when he was subbed late on. But all that will matter to everyone connected to Real Madrid is that they are one point clear of eternal rivals Barcelona. Advantage Mourinho.

Athletic Bilbao 1 - 2 Atletico Madrid

(0-1) 10' Forlan, (0-2) 80' Thiago, (1-2) 88' Llorente

Atleti fly back to the top of the table with a performance that offered yet more evidence that this season they should be ironed on certs for a Champions League spot at least. Over the course of a season I'm still not convinced they'll quite have enough to challenge Barca and Real Madrid at the top but a new-found resilience in defence coupled with the usual attacking flair means they will be a match for anyone. Diego Godin looks a superb signing at the back and his assertiveness is rubbing off on Luis Perea and Antonio Lopez, players who thrive when high on confidence. After a superb goal from Diego Forlan and a header ten minutes from time by sub Thiago the points looked safe. But Athletic Bilbao pulled a goal back in the dying minutes through Fernando Llorente, courtesy of a flying run from the impressive De Marcos, to set up a tense finale but the late equaliser never materialised. Atletis first real test passed with flying colours, though the biggest test of all is just around the corner. Home tie v Barca.

Valencia 1 - 0 Racing Santander

(1-0) 45' Maduro

Unai Emery couldnt have imagined a better start to the season in his wildest dreams. But sometimes the loss of a couple of stars can galvanise a team, and the departures of Villa and Silva seem to have done just that. Valencia were dreadful in the first half but numerous saves from veteran keeper Cesar and a late goal from Dutch defender Maduro sent 'Los Che' in at halftime in the lead. If Racing had brought their shooting boots it could have been a rout, but they were no doubt left in the cupboard back in Santander. The second half saw the home side find their rhythm, but there were to be no more goals. Only an unfortunate injury to midfield showman Ever Banega soured a win that sees Valencia on six points from six.

Villarreal 4 - 0 Espanyol
(1-0) 23' Rossi, (2-0) 31' Valero, (3-0) 55' Rossi (p), (4-0) 77' Nilmar

Sevilla 0 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña

Sporting Gijon 2 - 0 Mallorca
(1-0) 47' Botia, (2-0) 86' D. Castro (p)

Real Zaragoza 3 - 5 Malaga
(0-1) 1' Fernando, (0-2) 7' Juanmi, (0-3) 27' Fernando, (0-4) 29' Juanmi, (0-5) 34' Quincy, (1-5) 40' Edmilson, (2-5) 68' Marco Perez, (3-5) 80' Ander Herrera

Getafe 4 - 1 Levante
(1-0) 5' Gavilan, (2-0) 10' Colunga, (2-1) 13' Rafa Jorda, (3-1) 90' Gavilan, (4-1) 90' Arizmendi

Almeria 2 - 2 Real Sociedad
(0-1) 8' Tamudo, (1-1) 21' Piatti, (1-2) 33' Sutil, (2-2) 90' Ulloa

LIGA NEWS: Atletico Madrid president getting too big for his shoes?

There's no denying it. The last few months have been glorious for Atletico Madrid  fans. First they had that historic triumph against Fulham in the UEFA Europa League final. They then topped it off in pre-season by comfortably seeing off Champions League winners Inter Milan in the European Supercup. The only disappointment has been a Copa del Rey final defeat to Sevilla in May. But the fans still got their day out in the Nou Camp. It was an astonishing finale to the season for the Colchoneros and after the astute summer additions of Diego Godín, Fran Merida and Filipe Luis and an opening day 4-0 thrashing of Sporting Gijon, confidence is sky high. They even managed to keep onto their fearsome front pairing: Forlan and Agüero. The Vicente Calderon senses their time is coming. They're on the edge of something special.

So it came as a bit of a surprise to me when I read president Enrique Cerezos comments today when he stated that there would be no place for Cristiano Ronaldo in Atletis first XI. Followed up with 'I want to see Real Madrid in the rear view mirror all season long'. Don't get me wrong, I'd be the first to celebrate Atletico Madrid finishing above Real Madrid. Anything to break this ongoing duopoly that has gripped La Liga. But does Cerezo really believe Cristiano wouldn't get in his side? Does he honestly expect Atletico to finish above their free-spending neighbours with Jose Mourinho at the helm? Nothing wrong with a bit of bravado, but he certainly could have waited until December to start the rallying calls. During the second match weekend, we'll see if his comments served to fire up his players. Or if they piled unnecessary pressure on a team more than capable of self-destructing in times gone by. A date in the Cathedral of Spanish football against Athletic Bilbao and big Fernando Llorente awaits.

SEVILLA COPA DEL REY WINNERS 2010: Cup final to savour!

Sevilla 2 - 0 Atletico Madrid
(1-0) 5' Capel, (2-0) 91' Jesus Navas

All the talk before the final was about who wanted it the most. Who was dreaming more about winning the final. Even now I think it's impossible to say. Diego Capel and Jesus Navas scored the goals that ensured the Copa del Rey would be travelling down to Sevilla. Atletico Madrid were cruelly denied the chance to lift their second trophy in a week but the players and fans can take pride in the part they played in what was a memorable cup final. 50,000 Atleti fans made the trip up to the Camp Nou and their vocal support was nothing short of relentless. Win or lose, they were there to rejoice in a historic week for the red and white half of Madrid. Those who watched will never forget those cries of 'ATLETI' when the final whistle was blown. Who's to know if it was the emptyness of defeat or the display of affection from their adoring supporters that provoked tears from many of the Atleti squad. They certainly had nothing to be ashamed of. Both in victory and defeat, this Atletico team will come back bigger and stronger next season.

However well Atletico played, they came across a Sevilla team on a mission. A mission that started on 28th August 2007; the fateful day unfortunate Antonio Puerta left his team a man down. Ever since, his old teammates have strived to lift a trophy in his honour. If it wasn't to be against AC Milan in the European Supercup just three days after, they were not going to be denied tonight. How apt it should be that the man wearing his old number 16 shirt, Diego Capel, should set them on their way after only 5 minutes on the clock. Andres Palop, the man who singlehandedly kept out a rampant Barcelona in the earlier rounds, was equal to everything Atleti fired his way. Didier Zokora was everywhere. I've never seen a man run so much in 90 minutes. Atletico Madrid had the possession and the chances, but Sevilla had a little helping hand from above. In added time Jesus Navas sped away from Dominguez, rounded De Gea and netted to seal the win, sending the 35,000 Sevillanos into raptures. The celebrations yielded a number of 'sombrero' hats, immortilizing the peculiar dress sense of their hugely unlikeable president Jose Maria Del Nido. Palop raised the oversized trophy and their mission was complete. A cup final to remember.

ATLETICO MADRID WIN EUROPA LEAGUE: Diego Forlan the two goal hero!

Atletico Madrid 2 - 1 Fulham

(1-0) 31' Forlan, (1-1) 38' Davies, (2-1) 116' Forlan

Atletico Madrid ended 48 years of hurt to land the Europa League in Hamburg, defeating English side Fulham 2-1. Diego Forlan was the two goal hero, striking the first of the match after 30 minutes and leaving it late to grab the winner, just four minutes from the end of extra time. The Uruguayan has saved his best for Europe this season, with the English bearing the brunt of his razor-sharp finishing. Call it revenge after his barren spell at Manchester United, but the hitman has scored crucial goals against Liverpool and Fulham, almost single-handedly driving Atleti to Euro glory. But this was no one-man-show. Forlan was aided by an electric performance from Sergio Agüero and solid displays from youngsters Dominguez and David de Gea, as Atleti overcame a resolute Fulham side to snatch the trophy just as the dreaded penalty shootout was approaching. 

You have to take your proverbial hat off to Fulham, who have been nothing short of an absolute revelation in this tournament. Mohamed Al Fayeds team refuse to back down from a fight, taking little time to claw themselves back into the final with an equaliser through Welshman Simon Davies. Zoltan Gera and Dickson Etuhu put in admirable shifts, but they were hampered early in the second half as their menacing focal point, Bobby Zamora, was forced off injured, leaving them glaringly short of presence up front. Atletico carried the greater threat throughout, especially when 'El Kun' grabbed hold of the ball. The Argentine was a constant menace for Brede Hangeland and Aaron Hughes, and it was their failure to deal with his incisive runs that ultimately cost them. It was desparately sad for the neutral to see Roy Hodgson and his unfancied team of veterans fall at the last hurdle, but Fulham more than contributed to what was a hotly contested final, dominated by two imposing defences. They simply lacked the class and ruthlessness of Agüero and Forlan.

There have been some miserable moments down the years for Atleti; a perpetual suffering as the club hurdled crisis after crisis. Yet it makes moments like this even sweeter. The Neptune Fountain finally got the celebration it's been lacking since 1962. The man who has turned it all around at the Vicente Calderon, Quique Sanches Florez, was flung in the air by his ecstatic players in the frenzied celebrations after Antonio Lopez lifted the trophy; a clear sign of their admiration for the former Valencia coach. The job Quique has done since he arrived early  this season to replace Abel Resino simply cannot be underestimated. Back on October 23rd he entered into an undignified mess. Seven months later they have the Europa League in the cabinet and a Copa del Rey final to look forward to in one weeks time. He has etched himself a place in Atleti folklore.

So a massive congratulations to Atletico Madrid and all their fiercely loyal supporters, who have waited almost half a century for another taste of European silverware. On to the Camp Nou for Round two.

Atletico Madrid v Fulham: Europa League Final Preview

Tonight, 24 years later, Atletico Madrid will once again fight for their second European title as they take on Roy Hodgsons Fulham in Hamburg. Some posers as we preview the match: Will we see the same Perea that lead the defensive line so admirably against Liverpool? Can Sergio Agüero and Diego Forlan fire Atleti to glory? Will Atletis defence cope with the under-rated front four of Bobby Zamora, Damien Duff, Zoltan Gera and Simon Davies? One thing that Atletico simply cannot do is underestimate this Fulham team; a team few in the Atleti squad had probably heard of when the first ball was kicked in this seasons Europa League. 

Fulham have contrived to knock out the favourites (Juventus), the holders (Shaktar Donetsk) and the team whose ground will host the final (Hamburg). It would appear destiny is on the side of the Londoners but that will count for nothing as the two sides lock horns in little under two hours time. Perea will need to be prepared for physical battle with Bobby Zamora. The Atleti full-backs, most likely Ujfalusi and Antonio Lopez, cannot lose concentration for one moment against the pace and trickery of Duff and Davies. Assuncao will need to follow Danny Murphys every move; the creative force behind Hodgsons team. Then they can let the class and firepower of Agüero and Forlan to shoot them to glory. It promises to be electric, with the two teams desparate to make their mark on the inaugural Europa League final. To all Atletico fans, especially the guys over at MadridAtleticos: The best of luck.

Check out an in-depth preview for the final HERE at MadridAtleticos!

Europa League: Forlan sends jubilant Atletico packing to Hamburg!

Liverpool 2 - 1 Atletico Madrid
(1-0) 43' Aquilani, (2-0) 94' Benayoun, (2-1) 102' Forlan

Heros. The lot of them. Atletico Madrid fought back from the brink of elimination  to plant themselves in next months Europa League final in Hamburg, where they will face Roy Hodgsons Fulham. After a season full of desparate lows and blissful highs, Atleti find themselves in two cup finals. Quite how they manage to mix dismal defeats at home with passionate performances on the continent is beyond the understanding of even the hardened footballing connoisseur. I guess you could say they do it their way. The Atleti way. Tonight, years of lost pride were recovered. They played with their hearts on their sleeves. Something the fans felt had been severely lacking in recent years. It came at the right time.

But boy did they suffer. Liverpool came out of the traps in predictably hungry mood, with David de Gea and his defence having to be on their toes as early as the first minute as Kuyt and Gerrard threatened. Strangely, as the first half unfolded and Liverpools initial bombardment subsided, the Atletico players broke into what was almost a swagger. Liverpool lacked the relentless intensity they would surely have offered had it been a Champions League tie. Atletico sensed that against a Liverpool side without Fernando Torres they were more than a match for their illustrious hosts. A daunting trip to Anfield? Or a walk in Stanley Park? It seemed to good to be true, so it felt inevitable when as halftime approached, Alberto Aquilani drew Liverpool level in the tie with an exquisite swivel and shot that creeped inside the post. Suddenly the Kop was in full voice and Atleti were back in a war of attrition. End to end football, with little end result, characterised the second half, as both teams looked to attack at every opportunity.

As the teams entered into extra time, you felt it was Liverpool more than Atleti that were happy to let the tie be decided from the spot. Out of nowhere, a sumptuous chipped pass set Yossi Benayoun free in the area, with the Israeli making no mistake with his drilled first time shot across De Gea. Now it was Liverpool who were minutes away from Hamburg. Yet even after this potentially fatal setback, Atletico refused to buckle. Instead, eight minutes later, Jose Antonio Reyes bolted in from the right, ghosted past Glen Johnson and lifted a pass towards Diego Forlan that was worthy of a trip to Hamburg in its own right. As you'd expect, Forlan made no mistake from 2 yards out. The former Man Utd striker hadn't had a sniff all night, but he timed his strike to perfection. It only remained for Atleti to survive a frantic finale which saw Liverpool throw bodies forward in a desparate search for that decisive third goal. It never came.

The final whistle sparked wild celebrations from a jubilant Atletico who reach a European final, 26 years after their appearance in the European Cup final of 1974. If they win it would be their first European trophy since 1962 when they won the European Cups Winners Cup. Only Fulham stand between Atletico and history. Even if they lose, those players have retained pride that has been lost over years of mediocrity. Atletico are a European force once more.

Agüero and Salvio join forces as Atletico defeat stubborn Tenerife (Highlights)

Atletico Madrid 3 - 1 Tenerife
(1-0) 11' Salvio, (2-0) 30' Salvio, (2-1) 61' Román, (3-1) 77' Agüero

Sergio Agüero has found himself a new friend. The two Argentinians Agüero and Salvio ripped Tenerife apart in a sazzling first half display that boded well for their midweek trip to Liverpool. Within half an hour Salvio had already chalked up two goals as Tenerife were torn apart by a rampant Atletico Madrid. With Forlán, Reyes and Simao also finding their form just at the right time, Quique has an embarrassment of riches at the top end of the field. Credit to Tenerife they stuck at it, and having pulled back a goal through Roman Martinez, they even had chances to level the match as Nino threatened briefly. Atletico weathered the storm with Sergio Agüero making sure of the win with little over ten minutes remaining. Forlan provided the pass and Agüero showed strength and composure to hold off the defender and sidefoot past Aragoneses. Not a bad way to prepare for Anfield. For Tenerife, another week stuck in the bottom three, as chances to pull themselves out of the abyss become fewer by the week.

Getafe 4 - 3 Sevilla
(1-0) 16' Adrian, (1-1) 33' Luis Fabiano, (1-2) 38' Kanoute, (2-2) 58' Pedro Leon, (2-3) 61' Luis Fabiano, (3-3) 75' Manu, (4-3) 93' Parejo

One of those matches that had absolutely everything, helped by some electric attacking football, clinical finishing and shocking defending. 31 shots on goal, 4 struck the woodwork, 7 flew in and one was an absolutely world class effort from Luis Fabiano. In short: Getafe take early lead, Sevilla fight back to take the lead having been severely under the cosh. Getafe equalise only for Luis Fabiano to score his second and put Sevilla infront once more. Getafe fight back a second time and after Frederic Kanoute was sent off went on to win thanks to a last gasp, re-taken penalty from Dani Parejo after Negredo had given the ball away in a truely unforgiveable manner. Thriller. The match also had implications for both races for Europe as Mallorca now hold the advantage for the race for fourth whilst Getafe are hot on the heels of Villarreal for the last Europa League position. And check out that dudes cigar and sombrero combo in the video. Classic. Who said Spanish Football was boring?

Sporting Gijon 0 - 2 Real Valladolid
(0-1) 80' Manucho, (0-2) 93' Baraja

Can Real Valladolid pull off yet another miraculous escape? Since Javier Clemente took over they've drawn two and won two, but more importantly havn't conceded a goal. A remarkable turnaround, especially when you take into account the farcical situation Clemente found the club in when he took over. With the former Spain coach employing five at the back, it was a solid defensive performance that provided the platform for Manucho and Baraja to score late goals and bag the all-important three points. Valladolid are not going down without a fight.

Racing Santander 1 - 2 Villarreal
(1-0) 38' Canales, (1-1) 70' Godin, (1-2) 82' Nilmar

Almeria 0 - 1 Espanyol
(0-1) 54' Luis Garcia

Mallorca 1 - 1 Malaga
(0-1) 86' Obinna, (1-1) 91' Aduriz

Athletic Bilbao 0 - 0 Osasuna

Europa League: Atletico Madrid take giant leap towards Hamburg

Atletico Madrid 1 - 0 Liverpool
(1-0) 8' Forlan

Atletico Madrid put one foot in Hamburg as they downed Liverpool in the Vicente Calderon courtesy of a Diego Forlan strike after only 8 minutes. As shocking as they have been recently in La Liga, they returned to something like their best tonight as they took advantage of a disjointed Liverpool display to record a vital first leg victory. The defence was unrecognisable from the back four that capitulated against Xerez in their last home encounter. Organised, attentive and competitive. Luis Perea has been the laughing stock of Spain at times this season but tonight was his night. The Columbian was superb.

Jose Antonio Reyes delivered another dazzling performance that will have Vicente Del Bosque taking note. The man from Utrera was unplayable. Surging runs, nifty footwork and passes that deserved goals. How he merited the ovation he was afforded when subbed in injury time. Diego Forlan, got the all-important winner, a scrappy finish, offering another olive branch to the fans who had lost faith in their goal machine. The chance was created by Jurado; hardly the crowds choice for Player of the Year himself, but another whose stock rose above the waterline with a gritty display.

Blunted by the loss of Atleti hero, Fernando Torres, Liverpool only ever ruffled Atletico when Steven Gerrard broke free in the area only to shoot against the side-netting. Infact, the advantage Atleti take to Anfield could well have been greater. Pepe Reina reminding his compatriots just why he's their number two with a stunning reflex save from Simoa that has kept his team in with a shout. With Sergio Agüero available for the second leg, you wouldnt bet against an away goal, which would leave Liverpool needing three to go through. Nearly there.

Espanyol breathe new life into La Liga after holding Barca to derby draw

Espanyol 0 - 0 Barcelona

Barcelona lost their margin for error as Espanyol held them to a derby draw that breathes new life into La Liga. After last weeks dismantling of Real Madrid in their own backyard, many expected Barca to motor on unscathed to Liga glory. But their derby rivals had other ideas as they got stuck into the visitors, backed by a vociferous Cornella crowd. Baena and Forlin were monstruous in the middle of the park, as Xavi, Messi and Busquets were continually hounded in possession. Barca struggled to get into their stride from the off and were a shadow of the side that saw off Arsenal and Real Madrid in recent weeks. That said, Pep Guardiola and his players certainly have grounds for complaint regarding referee Undiano Mallencos performance, as Dani Alves was sent off for two innocuous fouls, whereas Espanyol were allowed to get away with numerous robust challenges which served to halt many of Barcas attacks.

Even so, Mauricio Pochettino must take great credit for setting up his side to frustrate Barca, with his 4-2-3-1 formation preventing Leo Messi and Xavi from being allowed to impose themselves on the match. Infact it was only the second time this season that Barcelona were prevented from scoring, with only Valencia managing that feat on matchday seven. Though having played for half an hour with a man less, Guardiola may well see this as a point well won, with Real Madrid still having to gain three points from a tricky home match against Valencia to make the most of this slip-up. But with trips to Villarreal and Sevilla still to negotiate for Barcelona, this league is still far from over. If Real Madrid do pick up the win tomorrow, and with Inter Milan still to come in the Champions League for Barca between league matches, La Liga will be thrown wide open, and with the easier run-in, Manuel Pellegrinis men will really fancy their chances. HAY LIGA!

Villarreal 2 - 1 Atletico Madrid
(1-0) 21' Godin, (2-0) 43' Rossi, (2-1) 64' Agüero

Sevilla 3 - 0 Sporting Gijon
(1-0) 7' Kanoute, (2-0) 53' Fabiano, (3-0) 84' Cala

Barcelona brush Depor aside to jump six points clear (Highlights)

Barcelona 3 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña
(1-0) 15' Bojan, (2-0) 68' Pedro, (3-0) 72' Toure Yaya

Barcelona brushed aside a weak Depor side to leap six points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga. Barca dominated the match with embarrassing ease, but it wasn't until late on in the second half before they made sure of the win. Bojan, who has looked razor sharp in this seasons home straight, put Barca infront early on after yet another defence splitting pass from Xavi Hernandez. Messi may well be the best player in world football right now, but the importance of Xavi to this side can never be underestimated. Deportivo didn't get a touch of the ball  in the first half, but the Galicians fought their way back into the match after halftime, and gave the host a couple of scares before Pedro got the all important second goal with twenty minutes remaining.

And what a goal it was. Victor Valdes pumped the ball forward and when Depor keeper Aranzubia failed to properly clear his lines, Pedro curled the ball first-time into the empty net from close to the halfway line. The young man from Tenerife displaying once more his exquisite quality, and after his match-settling goal in the Clasico, the stage is set for Pedro to emerge as a vital cog in the Barca machine next season, if he isn't already. Toure Yaya smashed in the third shortly after, allowing the Camp Nou crowd to break into Mexican waves as the match drew to a close. If Real Madrid fail to get anything other than a win tomorrow at Almeria, its game over.

Atletico Madrid 1 - 2 Xerez
(0-1) 9' Bermejo, (1-1) 11' Forlan, (1-2) 72' Armenteros

Who saw this one coming? Just when it seemed Xerez were out for the count, they pull off an incredible away victory at the Vicente Calderon. Atletico Madrid may well have given up on the league, but the small team from Andalucia certainly havn't. They are now only six points behind Málaga and with a vital home match against Racing Santander coming up this weekend, they could well be only three points off salvation as we enter the final five matches. Mario Bermejo and Emilio Armenteros headed in both the goals, with De Gea left glaringly exposed on both occasions. Meanwhile, for Atletico, La Liga appears to be an inconvenient distraction as they prepare to fight it out with Liverpool and Sevilla in their search for silverware. Tonight they were woeful, with only Forlans bullet of a goal worth cheering about. Jurado has replaced Diego Forlan as the crowds public enemy number one, as the fans make their dismay at their teams league form abundantly clear.

Real Zaragoza 1 - 1 Mallorca
(0-1) 13' Ruben, (1-1) 21' Suazo

Real Zaragoza really aren't making it easy for themselves. Anyone who follows 'Los Maños' knows that they struggle badly to score points away from home, which makes those matches at La Romareda doubly important. Just as well the referee wrongly ruled out a late Aduriz goal that would have placed Zaragoza in serious trouble. Ruben headed Mallorca into the lead but Zaragoza were quick to level matters as 'Chupete' Suazo chipped a delightful goal over Aouate. The Chilean has been an inspired signing and could well be the difference between relegation and survival. Borja Valero gave yet another Xavi-esque performance as his team leapfrog Sevilla in the fight for the fourth Champions League position.

Racing Santander 3 - 1 Espanyol
(0-1) 32' Alonso (1-1) 36' Tchite (p), (2-1) 50' Tchite (p), (3-1) 91' Arana

Osasuna 2 - 2 Malaga
(1-0) 10' Pandiani, (1-1) 32' Caicedo, (2-1) 48' Pandiani, (2-2) 76' Baha

Mallorca keep pace with Sevilla; Atletico Madrid give up on the league

Espanyol 3 - 0 Atletico Madrid
(1-0) 47' Victor Ruiz (2-0) 68' Osvaldo (3-0) 91' Ivan Alonso

Mallorca 3 - 2 Valencia
(1-0) 6' Castro, (2-0) 21' Webo, (2-1) 47' Jordi Alba, (3-1) 63' Fernandes (o.g), (3-2) 85' Pablo Hernandez

Osasuna 2 - 0 Real Zaragoza
(1-0) 2' Aranda (2-0) 92' Vadocz

Deportivo La Coruña 1 - 1 Racing Santander
(1-0) 1' Riki, (1-1) 83' Toni Moral

Athletic Bilbao 4 - 1 Almeria
(1-0) 13' Javi Martinez, (2-0) 32' Gabilondo, (3-0) 49' Javi Martinez, (4-0) 51' Llorente, (4-1) 71' Piatti

Europa League: Atletico win Battle of Spain and face Liverpool in the Semis

Atletico Madrid won through the Battle of Spain to book their place in the semi-final of the Europa League where they will meet Liverpool and former hero Fernando Torres. The match failed to live up to the five star billing, as Atlético just about shaded a disappointingly dull first half. Valencia perked up after the break, but only really began to exert any real pressure within the last ten minutes with David Villa smashing a shot against the crossbar as Valencia came desparately close to the goal that would have sent them through in an enthralling finale.

Unai Emery threw on the big man Nicola Zigic and the beanpole made all the difference. Imperious in the air, the giant Serb won absolutely everything thrown up towards him. Then with 86 minutes on the clock, controversy struck. Vicente whipped the ball into the box, and with Zigic a yard from the goalline and odds on to nod in, he had his shirt ripped apart by Juanito, in what was about as clear a penalty as you will ever see. If I were a Valencia fan I would be livid, and Unai Emery certainly wasn't best pleased with Florian Meyers decision, with his remonstrations earning him a red card in the aftermath. I honestly can't see this six referee experiment continuing after this tournament, cause not one of those who stand by the area has the courage to make a match-changing decision. Has anyone seen them do anything?

Although Valencia will feel aggrieved, Atlético deserved to go through on the balance of the two ties. They say you make your luck in football and their lack of adventure in the first 80 minutes of this match cost them dearly. That said, they were denied miraculously on numerous occasions as the match drew to a close by that man David De Gea who is rapidly making a name for himself in the Vicente Calderon. Yet another Spanish keeper throwing his name in the hat for that infamous third goalkeeping spot in Spains World Cup squad.

So those long-suffering fans finally have a European semi final to celebrate 11 years later. Liverpool await in the semis, with two of Europes most passionate sets of fans ready to lock horns two years after their eventful Champions League clashes in 2008. I'd like to send my congratulations to the boys over at MadridAtleticos, who will no doubt be celebrating their teams achievement in Madrid over the weekend! It's been an eventful season in the red and white half of the capital, but incredibly they're now only one step from the Europa League final in Hamburg. Arise Sir Quique.