Spanish league : Barcelona crashes to first defeat of season

An injury hit FC Barcelona suffered its first defeat of the season, losing 2-1 away to Atletico Madrid in the Spanish league on Saturday.

Goals from Diego Forlan and Simao put Atletico 2-0 ahead and although Zlatan Ibrahimovich gave Barcelona hope before half time, Atletico could have won by more goals.

Barcelona went into the game with six defenders missing through injury and suspension and with young winger Jeffren acting as an emergency right back.

Atletico took the lead after nine minutes with Diego Forlan showing his improved form.

Kun Aguero missed a similar chance after 18 minutes, but four minutes later Simao added a second.

The former Barcelona player beat a poorly positioned Valdes with a free kick after Carles Puyol had fouled Aguero.

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola threw young striker Bojan into the action and Leo Messi almost scored a late equalizer in the last minute, but Atletico held on for a well deserved win, which means that neighbors Real Madrid are now just two points behind Barca at the top of the BBVA Primera Liga table.