Diego Costa brace helps Atletico Madrid held edge Sevilla

Atletico Madrid have begun life without Radamel Falcao with maximum points from their La Liga opener against Sevilla, thanks to a brace from Brazilian striker Diego Costa.

Both sides set a frenetic tempo early on at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjaun, with Carlos Bacca heading against the bar before Atletico debutant David Villa struck the post at the other end.

After 35 minutes Atletico broke the deadlock with a clinical finish from Costa, who turned home Koke's cross from close range.

Sevilla responded quickly and were level within three minutes as Diego Perotti thumped past Thibaut Courtois from 25 yards.

Early in the second half Vitolo spurned a glorious opportunity for the hosts, which Costa made them pay for 11 minutes from time.

The Brazilian collected a through ball from Gabi with a neat first touch, before sliding beyond Beto to the far post with a precise finish.

Diego Simeone's side made all three points safe just before stoppage time as substitute Cristian Rodriguez ignoring options at the far post to slide home from close range.