IT is still almost impossible to separate Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at the top of the Primera Division, after the two sides battled to a goalless draw on Saturday.

The stalemate, during which genuine scoring chances were few and far between, means the Catalan side are still ahead on goal difference after 19 matches but it allowed Real Madrid to close within three points of both clubs, after their 1-0 win over Espanyol.

"I am completely satisfied with the team's work and we remain in a privileged position." said a pleased Diego Simeone, the Atletico manager. "We got a good result."