With Real Madrid's defeat against Villarreal last night handing the Catalan side the Primera Division crown, expectations were of a showcase of Barca's attacking skills.

Samuel Eto'o scored after 10 minutes to set the expected tone but from there on it was a disappointing day for both player and club, as the striker missed a hatful of chances - including a last-gasp penalty.

At the other end a fine strike from the impressive Juan Arango and a deft Loureiro Santana header sealed the points for the hosts.

Atletico Madrid moved into fourth place after coming out on top against Valencia as the battle for the final Champions League place continues to go all the way.

Diego Forlan scored the only goal from the penalty spot after 30 minutes after Sergio Aguero had been brought down by visiting keeper Cesar Sanchez.

Atletico are now two points clear of Los Che.

At the other end of the table, Sporting Gijon moved out of the relegation zone after an impressive 2-1 victory against high-flying Malaga.

They achieved it thanks to an own goal eight minutes into the second half from Helder Rosario.

But that slice of luck was the least they deserved for a committed performance which sees them move above Osasuna on a better head-to-head record and out of immediate danger.

Gerard handed Sporting a 24th-minute lead with Robson Weligton levelling matters 14 minutes later for a Malaga side whose Champions League hopes are now all but over.