Leaders Barca drop points to Atletico

Atletico Madrid blew the Spanish championship race wide open by defeating previously unbeaten leaders Barcelona 2-1 in an enthralling game here on Sunday.

Barca's lead over title rivals Real Madrid was reduced to two points after Pep Guardiola's defensively depleted side crashed to defeat in Madrid.

Missing the injured Eric Abidal, Dani Alves, Dmytro Chygrynskiy and Yaya Toure, along with Rafa Marquez and Gerard Pique suspended, Barca struggled from the start. Diego Forlan and Simao scored for the hosts, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic pulled a goal back for Barcelona.

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