LONDON (AP) ― Manchester City took charge of the Premier League title race as Edin Dzeko and Yaya Toure scored first-half goals for a 2-0 win at Crystal Palace on Sunday.
After leader Liverpool lost 2-0 against Chelsea at home, City cut its deficit to three points with one game in hand. If it wins the three remaining matches and keeps a superior goal difference, Man City will be crowned champions.
Recovered from a thigh problem, Toure made a spectacular return to competition, setting up Dzeko’s opener in the fourth minute with a precise cross the striker headed home.
The powerful midfielder then started and concluded a superb collective move two minutes before halftime with a curling shot.
Chelsea slowed Liverpool’s title charge and kept its own chances alive with a 2-0 victory against the sloppy leaders.
Spain
Atletico Madrid moved one step closer to its first Spanish league title in 18 years with a 1-0 victory at Valencia, while Lionel Messi completed an emotional 3-2 comeback win for Barcelona at Villarreal two days after the death of former coach Tito Vilanova.
Atletico midfielder Raul Garcia scored with an impressive header in the 43rd minute, and its defense did the rest as it gave Valencia no chance to rally at its Mestalla Stadium.
Diego Simeone’s side moved six points clear of Real Madrid, which has a game in hand, while Barcelona remained within four points.
Netherlands
Ajax won its 33rd Dutch league title and fourth straight after drawing at Heracles Almelo 1-1.
Lasse Schone put Ajax ahead with a free kick after 13 minutes.
