Atletico Madrid squeeze past Real Betis

Atletico Madrid have edged closer to La Liga leaders Barcelona thanks to a narrow 1-0 victory at home to Real Betis.

A third win in four league matches has moved Diego Simeone's side to within nine points of Barca.

After a goalless first half the deadlock was broken on the hour mark as substitute Diego Costa headed into an empty net following Betis goalkeeper Adrian's failure to deal with a cross.

Nacho came close to a Betis leveller just minutes later, but his fizzing drive flew inches wide of the post.

Despite the away side's best efforts to snatch a point in the final 10 minutes, they were unable to find the net.