Barcelona handled adversity with tremendous character, overcoming injuries and a one-goal disadvantage to defeat Atlético Madrid 3–1.
Álex Baena put the visitors in front before Raphinha scored his first goal in nearly three months before halftime. Dani Olmo gave Barcelona the lead just past the hour-mark, injuring himself in the process, before Pedri and Raphinha also exited the pitch in what looked like some discomfort.
With the visitors pushing forward in the dying minutes, Barcelona defended tooth and nail until Ferran Torres scored a third to put an exclamation point on a well-earned win for Hansi Flick’s men.
It’s the fifth comeback victory in La Liga this season for Barcelona, as well as their fifth league win on the bounce. The Catalans are now four points clear of Real Madrid atop the standings, highlighting the importance of tonight’s gritty win.
Lack of intensity had been a thorn in Barça’s side this season. Against Atléti, Flick’s side showed the fighting spirit and tenacity that defined their success from a season ago.
