Atletico Madrid moved to within two wins of the La Liga title after Raul Garcia’s goal earned Diego Simeone’s side victory at Valencia.
The 27-year-old midfielder glanced Gabi’s angled pass into the net following a mix-up between keeper Vicente Guaita and Jeremy Mathieu.
Valencia enjoyed plenty of possession, Jonas heading a fine chance wide.
Atletico finished with 10 men after Juanfran was shown a straight red for bringing down midfielder Pablo Piatti.
Atletico’s ninth straight league win restored their six-point advantage at the top over title rivals Real Madrid, who beat Osasuna 4-0 at the Bernabeu on Saturday.