Sevilla ended the first half of the season as winter champions despite losing by a single Leniz goal at Eibar. They now have 40 points, one more than their city rivals Betis who beat Jaén by the same result. Denilson made his reappearance after returning from Brazil a few days ago.

Third placed Tenerife returned to winning ways, beating Leganés 3-2 to stay a point behind Betis. Fourth placed Recreativo fell 1-0 to Racing Ferrol, and Salamanca took advantage to move above them on goal average with a 1-2 victory over Murcia.

Córdoba rose five places to sixth after beating Sporting 2-0 with two goals in the second half, and no less than seven teams are within two points of them, including Atlético Madrid who came from behind in the last 20 minutes to beat local rivals Getafe 2-1.

Bottom club Universidad Las Palmas finally got their second win of the season, beating Albacete 1-0, and the team above them Lleida got a point at Extremadura with a goal-less draw.

Draws too in the games Badajoz vs Levante and Compostela vs Elche, both 1-1. (21.01.01)