Levante 2-2 Atletico Madrid: Fernando Torres scores La Liga equaliser

Atletico Madrid had to come from behind twice to draw 2-2 at Levante, but the point they gained takes them to within striking distance of securing third place.

Last season's champions fell behind to a close range effort from David Barral on 32 minutes but just moments later Guilherme Siqueira levelled. Kalu Uche put the hosts in charge again in the second half but his goal was cancelled out at the other end by Fernando Torres.

Despite 41 points separating the two teams in the table, Atletico had to labour for this draw and missed an opportunity to move six points clear of Valencia in fourth, but need just one win from their last two games to clinch third place and an automatic berth in next season's Champions League.

Levante meanwhile look set for another year in the top flight as they move five points above the relegation zone.

Diego Simeone has not managed to win at the Ciutat de Valencia stadium in four visits as Atleti coach, and last season his side's title bid nearly unravelled as they were beaten 1-0 there.

The visitors had a double chance to score at the start of the game but Levante goalkeeper Diego Marino saved the first effort from Mario Mandzukic and the rebound from Arda Turan.

At the other end Jose Luis Morales saw his goal-bound shot deflected wide by Juanfran.

Levante took the lead just after the half hour mark, helped by a lapse in concentration by Miranda. The Brazilian got little power on his header as he attempted to clear a cross into the box, allowing Ivan Lopez to roll the ball across to the far post for Barral to tap in.

A defensive error also allowed Atleti to equalise just minutes later. Victor Camarasa, who Atletico are reported to be interested in signing in the summer, tried to pass his way out of trouble in his own area but Tiago Mendes reacted quickly to intercept and cross to Siqueira, who smashed into the net to score his first league goal for the Rojiblancos.

Levante's defensive organisation continued to frustrate Atletico after the break and they restored their lead shortly after the hour mark.

Lopez strolled down the right flank to roll the ball into the box and with the help of a deflection it landed in front of Uche, who bundled it over the line after Jan Oblak saved his first effort.

But just as they had done in the first half, Atleti hit back.

Koke swung a corner towards the near post and Torres rose highest to head into the net, scoring his sixth goal since returning to his boyhood club in January.

Atletico created more chances in the final 10 minutes than they had in the entire game, but could not find the winner.