Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has stressed the need to cement second spot with league leaders Barcelona miles ahead on the Spanish La Liga table but his team failed to back that up with action on Sunday evening.

Simeone’s men missed out on the chance to strengthen their grip on second spot following the disappointing goalless draw against Real Betis at home.

The draw takes Atletico Madrid to 72 points and four points ahead of Real Madrid (68 points) who have played one more game than their city rivals while Real Betis stay in 5th soot with 56 points.

Matchday 34 Results (Sunday):

Girona 0-2 Espanyol

Malaga 2-0 Real Sociedad

Las Palmas 0-4 Alaves

Atletico Madrid 0-0 Real Betis

Standings (Top Four via Points):

1. Barcelona 83

2. Atletico Madrid 72

3. Real Madrid 68

4. Valencia 66