Fernando Torres watched from the stands as Spanish champions Atletico Madrid maintained their pursuit of Real Madrid and Barcelona by beating Levante.
The Spain striker, 30, was not eligible as his move from AC Milancannot be formally completed until the Italian transfer window opens on Monday.
France forward Antoine Griezmann headed in either side of the break, but Nabil El Zhar’s deflection gave Levante hope.
Uruguay defender Diego Godin eased any worries with another header late on.
The Spanish league season resumed after a two-week winter break as Atletico hosted lowly Levante at the Vicente Calderon.
Victory moves Diego Simeone’s side within a point of leaders Real and level with second-placed Barca, although they have played more games than their title rivals.
Real travel to fourth-placed Valencia before David Moyes’s Real Sociedad host Barca later on Sunday.
“We should have finished off the game in the first half but we did not pressurise enough,” said centre-back Godin. “My goal calmed us down as we had become nervous after conceding.
“It was important for us to finish the year winning and also start with another victory.”
Atletico forward Antoine Griezmann has scored five goals in his last two matches
Diego Godin’s header means Atletico have scored 21 goals from set pieces this season – more than any other team in the top five European leagues
Source: BBC