Stalemate between Atlético and Barcelona

It is as you were at the Liga summit after joint leaders Club Atlético de Madrid and FC Barcelona drew 0-0 in the Spanish capital.

Atlético started superbly and pressed their visitors at every opportunity, but the Azulgrana gradually found their feet and enjoyed far superior possession as the opening period went on, even if clear goalscoring chances were at a premium. Gerardo Martino introduced Lionel Messi at the interval and the Argentina forward twice went close after the break, his cute header drifting wide before a driven effort was palmed away by Thibaut Courtois.

Víctor Valdés was required to thwart Diego Godín soon after the break, while Diego Costa and the impressive Arda Turan also threatened. However, there was no breakthrough forthcoming for either side, meaning Real Madrid CF can close the gap to three points with victory at RCD Espanyol on Sunday.

Athletic Club, meanwhile, consolidated fourth spot in spectacular fashion, Ibai Gómez scoring twice in a 6-1 defeat of UD Almería. Sevilla FC stay seventh having drawn 1-1 with Elche CF, while Valencia CF remain in eighth after they were condemned to a 2-1 loss at RC Celta de Vigo. On Friday, Granada CF eased to a 4-0 success against Real Valladolid CF, who finish the weekend in the relegation zone.