Despite being under pressure for most of the game, goals from Maxi Rodriguez and an own goal from Osasuna defender Nacho Monreal gave Atletico the win.

However, Real Zaragoza's draw against Recreativo meant they grabbed the final European place by virtue of their better head-to-head record against Atletico.

Despite having nothing to play for Osasuna looked keen to end the season on a high and came flying out the traps.

They could have been ahead after only a minute, but Savo Milosevic's right-foot effort from just inside the area cannoned off the post.

The former Aston Villa striker then saw another effort well saved by Atletico keeper Leo Franco minutes later.

Osasuna continued to press forward and David Lopez squandered a fine chance when he fired wide from 12 yards.

However Javier Aguirre's side began to get into the game and captain Fernando Torres, playing possibly his last game for the club, fired in an effort from the edge of the area which was well dealt with by Juan Elia.

Sergio Aguero then had a good chance to put Atletico in front, but he dragged his effort wide after finding space in the box.

The home side were struggling to contain Aguero and with 37 minutes gone he set up Argentinian compatriot Maxi to give Atletico the lead.

After a good run down the left, Aguero curled a pinpoint cross into the box where Maxi was waiting to fire past the helpless Elia.

Five minutes later Portuguese midfielder Maniche nearly extended their lead, but his volley from another Aguero cross, was straight at Elia.

As was the case in the first half, Osasuna started the second period brightly in search of an equaliser.

However, this time they made their pressure tell and Milosevic drew them level two minutes after the restart.

Juanfran broke down the right and he crossed for the Serb who produced a fine left-foot finish past Leo Franco.

Just as Osasuna looked to be back in the game, they were behind again five minutes later when Monreal headed into his own net from six yards.

The goal stunned the home fans, but to their credit Osasuna came storming back and were unlucky not to draw level as Milosevic was twice denied by Leo Franco.

Jose Angel Ziganda's side continued to pile forward and Milosevic connected well with Francisco Punal's cross, only to see his shot blocked by the excellent Leo Franco once again.

Despite Osasuna's dominance they were struggling to get past the Atletico keeper and late on Luciano Galletti nearly sealed the game for the visitors, but his ambitious long-range effort was saved by replacement goalkeeper Ricardo.

With time running out, Sola Ion Echaide met Lopez's cross but could only direct his header straight at Leo Franco.

It proved to be the home side's last chance as Atletico held on for the win which was not enough to secure them European football next season.