Atletico went into the game eight points adrift of pacesetters Barca, meaning anything other than a win would be of little use in the title race.
Their chances took a major blow in the 28th minute when Costa was given his marching orders after appearing to say something to referee Jesus Gil Manzano.
Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi secured the win – and probably La Liga – with goals in the last five minutes, though much of the post-match focus remained on Costa.
"In the last 11 games here [at Camp Nou] we have received seven red cards," Simeone told reporters. "We must be doing something wrong.
"I asked the referee and he told me something that Costa says he didn't say. If he said it [what the referee claims], he is deservedly sent off."
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