Diego Forlan continued to be the main driving force behind Atletico Madrid's push to qualify for next season's Champions League as he scored both goals against struggling Real Betis.
Forlan opened the scoring following a fine passing move after fourteen minutes and although Betis had their chances to equalise it was the Uruguayan who had the final say two minutes from the end.
That goal was the former Manchester United striker's fifth in four games. It leaves Atletico just a point behind Valencia - who lost 3-0 at Espanyol - in the final Champions League qualifying place.
For Betis the threat of relegation continues to hang low over the club as they have now lost their past three league fixtures and are just three points above the drop zone.