Atletico Madrid victory over Osasuna boosts their top-four hopes as Real Betis secure Champions League qualification
Atlético Madrid strengthened their hold on fourth place in La Liga after securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over CA Osasuna on Tuesday, while Real Betis guaranteed qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League with a win over Elche CF.
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The Atletico Madrid victory at the Metropolitano Stadium was sparked by Nigerian-born forward Ademola Lookman, who converted from the penalty spot in the 15th minute after a handball decision involving Javi Galán.
Alexander Sørloth doubled Atletico’s advantage with 20 minutes remaining, heading home from close range beyond goalkeeper Aitor Fernández.
Despite controlling much of the encounter, Atletico suffered a setback when Marcos Llorente received a red card following two reckless fouls.
Osasuna set up a tense finale after Kike Barja scored in stoppage time to reduce the deficit, but Atletico held on to secure all three points.
The result leaves Atletico fourth in the standings on 66 points behind newly crowned champions FC Barcelona, who have 91 points, alongside Real Madrid CF and Villarreal CF, both of whom have a game in hand.
Elsewhere, Levante UD climbed out of the relegation zone after twice coming from behind to secure a dramatic 3-2 away victory over RC Celta de Vigo.
The defeat dealt a significant blow to Celta Vigo’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League next season.
Levante now sit among a cluster of five clubs on 39 points battling to avoid relegation, including Elche and RCD Espanyol.
Meanwhile, Real Betis confirmed their return to Europe’s elite club competition after defeating Elche 2-1.
The victory moved Betis to 57 points, seven clear of sixth-placed Celta Vigo, ensuring they will finish no lower than fifth.
Also read: UCL semi-final: Arsenal and Atletico share 1-1 draw
It marks Real Betis’ first appearance in the UEFA Champions League since the 2005/06 season, ending a two-decade wait for a return to Europe’s premier competition.
Victory Emmanuel is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
