Barcelona were handed an unexpected boost in the title race on Sunday as their nearest challengers Atletico Madrid were beaten 1-0 by Real Betis.

Diego Simeone’s men went into the game knowing they could close the gap on Barcelona to three points with victory at the Benito Villamarin following the champions’ 2-2 draw with Valencia on Saturday.

However, a Sergio Canales penalty was enough to give Quique Setien’s side all three points and move them level on points with Getafe in fifth.

Atletico had gone into the game without a defeat in 18 La Liga matches and face another tough test next weekend when they welcome Real Madrid to the Wanda Metropolitano.

Barcelona looked as though they had slipped up yesterday by dropping points against Valencia, however they will end the weekend with their lead at the top of the table extended by one point.