Barcelona staged a spirited comeback to defeat Atletico Madrid 3-1 on Tuesday, moving four points clear at the summit of La Liga.
Alex Baena had put Atletico ahead, but Raphinha levelled for the champions before Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres struck to end Atletico’s 13-game unbeaten league run.
Robert Lewandowski missed a first-half penalty, ballooning over the bar, but Barcelona capitalised on their chances to secure a crucial victory.
Real Madrid, second on the table, visit Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday, seeking to reduce the gap, while Atletico remain fourth, six points behind the Catalans.
This marked Barcelona’s fifth consecutive league win following their October Clasico defeat to Real Madrid. Despite inconsistent displays in recent weeks, the win over a title rival gives Xavi Flick’s side a timely boost.
Barcelona were without defender Ronald Araujo, who is on a mental health break, and midfielder Frenkie de Jong, along with other long-term absentees.
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Atletico drew first blood after exploiting Barcelona’s high defensive line. Baena raced through to score past Joan Garcia, with the goal later confirmed by VAR after initially being flagged offside.
Barcelona responded in the 26th minute when Pedri, back from injury, fed Raphinha, who rounded Jan Oblak to slot home.
Lewandowski had the chance to put Barcelona ahead from a penalty after Dani Olmo was fouled but sent his effort high over the bar. Moments later, his header was brilliantly saved by Oblak from a Lamine Yamal cross.
In the second half, Olmo gave Barcelona the lead with a composed finish following a Lewandowski assist, only for the playmaker to sustain a shoulder injury and be replaced by Marcus Rashford. Pedri also went off injured after controlling much of the match, raising concerns ahead of next week’s Champions League clash with Frankfurt.
Atletico substitute Thiago Almada missed their best opportunity to equalise, while Oblak denied Rashford in stoppage time before Alejandro Balde set up Torres for a late finish.
The win keeps Barcelona firmly on course for the La Liga title while halting Atletico’s momentum.
