Atletico Madrid striker, Diego Costa, was sent off after scoring the winner on his league return for his club 2-0 home win over Getafe on Saturday, while Sevilla missed the chance to move above Real Madrid after losing 5-3 to local rivals, Real Betis.
Costa, playing his first La Liga game since rejoining Atletico from Chelsea following the end last week of the Spanish club’s transfer ban, had already been booked for a foul in the 62nd minute with the hosts 1-0 up through Angel Correa when six minutes later he met a low cross to double his side’s lead and spark wild celebrations.
The Spaniard jumped into the stands to embrace the fans was shown a red card after celebrating the goal during the Spanish league match against Getafa.
Atletico’s win moved them up the table, just 6 points behind league leaders, Barcelona, who host Levante on Sunday, and kept them two points clear of third-placed Valencia, who are on 37 points.
Atletico coach, Diego Simeone, however, said Costa deserved to be sent off.
“The referee was unable to consider the emotional aspect (of Costa’s behaviour), the rules are the rules,” Simeone said after the game.
“If you go and celebrate with the fans, the yellow is deserved. We must accept that.”
“Costa’s presence gives us speed and directness. And he frightens opponents too,” added Simeone. “You can feel that and see that.”
Meanwhile, Sevilla stay fifth on 30 points after the defeat in a fiery derby clash that saw nine yellow cards dished out.
The both teams hit the woodwork, one point behind Real, who travel to Celta Vigo on Sunday.
Betis jump six places up to eighth on 27 points after just their second win since October, thanks to goals from Fabian, Zuohair Feddal, Riza Durmisi, Sergio Leon and Cristian Tello.
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