Nico Gaitan’s first-half goal proved decisive as Atletico Madrid stuttered to an unimpressive 1-0 La Liga win at home to a Real Betis side who pushed their hosts all the way on Saturday.
Diego Simeone’s men looked a far sterner defensive unit than they did in Tuesday’s woeful 3-2 Copa del Rey second-leg defeat to Las Palmas, but going forward looked devoid of craft for long periods.
Initially they looked bright in attack and Gaitan, who was given just his fourth league start of the season after impressing on Tuesday, repaid Simeone’s faith with the opener.
There was little else for Atletico supporters to get excited about, though, as Betis produced a strong performance of their own with home goalkeeper Miguel Angel Moya impressing.
The win enabled Atletico to move within two points of third-placed Sevilla, who host Real Madrid on Sunday.
Atletico began with real intent and took charge early on, breaking the deadlock after just eight minutes.
The visitors were caught out in midfield and Atletico broke quickly, with Sime Vrsaljko charging up the right flank and seeing his low cross deflected into the path of Gaitan, who prodded past Antonio Adan from close range.
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