Atletico Madrid took another step toward its first La Liga title in 18 years as two goals in the last 20 minutes handed it a 2-0 win over Elche at the Vicente Calderon on Friday.

After a poor opening period from the host, it wasted a great chance to go in front 10 minutes after the break as David Villa's penalty was saved by Manu Herrera.

However, the league leader did eventually make the breakthrough 19 minutes from time when Miranda headed home Jose Sosa's cross and Diego Costa converted a second Atletico penalty of the night late after Christian Sapunaru was sent off for Elche.

The victory moves Atletico six points clear of Real Madrid at the top of the table and within three wins of sealing the title.

Los Rojiblancos' attention now turns to facing Chelsea in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal on Tuesday.

"The players put in a great effort and now we have to recover as best we can for the game on Tuesday," said Atletico boss Diego Simeone.

"It is a very important game for the club, the fans and the history of Atletico Madrid."

However, there remains some doubt as to whether one of Atletico's key men, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, will be able to face his parent club.

The Belgian international was in fine form once more on Friday as he made two crucial first-half saves from Javi Marquez and Sapunaru to keep Atletico level at the break.

(China Daily 04/20/2014 page31)