Atletico Madrid's quest to retain their title has suffered a further setback after they were held to a goalless draw by Espanyol.

After a subdued start to the game in Catalunya, Atleti almost forged an early lead when Koke's cross found Fernando Torres, but the ex-Chelsea forward's header was turned over by Francisco Casilla in the Periquitos' goal.

Seconds later, the Espanyol keeper needed to be on alert again when Koke's strike from inside the area bounced inches past the post.

The Rojiblancos looked to be in the supremacy as Jesus Gamez's tantalising cross reached Raul Garcia only for the midfielder to send his header over Casilla's crossbar.

Atleti had another chance to break the deadlock midway through the first half when Antoine Griezmann found space to run at the home side's defence before the French international's fizzing drive flew wide.

However, Diego Simeone's side suffered a setback on the stroke of half time when defender Miranda was sent off for a high tackle on Abraham Gonzalez.

The visitors struggled to create any clear-cut chances after the break as they looked like losing further ground on the Primera Division pacesetters.

Indeed, Atleti's best chance of a winning goal came 12 minutes from time when Garcia raced in on goal, but his subsequent effort was turned away from Casilla as Espanyol held on for a point.