La Liga’s title battle will take on greater definition this weekend when championship hopefuls Atletico Madrid and Barcelona meet at the Metropolitano Stadium for a key six-pointer.
Match background
Coming in the midst of a two-legged Copa del Rey tie between these teams, this league clash could be absolutely vital in determining the success or failure of these two teams in terms of their La Liga ambitions – especially with reigning champions Real Madrid hungry to leap on any points dropped.
While Atletico no doubt wish they had more of the free-wheeling attacking flair of their opponents, Barcelona could do with more of the solidity and consistency that characterises their hosts for this match. This inherent clash of styles should make for an absolutely thrilling and engrossing clash.
What the teams are saying
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone on the danger offered by Barcelona:
“They attack brilliantly, their numbers speak for themselves about the season they are having.”
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick on his admiration for his Atletico Madrid counterpart Diego Simeone:
“I have the utmost respect for his work, his passion, and his emotional connection to the game. His team reflects who he is.”
Players to watch
Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid
The Argentine striker has grown into arguably Atletico Madrid’s most important player, contributing with plenty of goals and assists – all while embodying the aggression and grit that Diego Simeone wants from his team.
Lamine Yamal, Barcelona
Any chance to see Lamine Yamal weave his magic for Barcelona is one that a true football shouldn’t miss, and the teenager will look to terrorise the Atletico Madrid defence at the Metropolitano Stadium this weekend.
Head-to-head
In head-to-head stats, Atletico and Barcelona have met in 243 matches across all competitions since 1925. The Blaugrana have claimed 110 wins compared to 77 for Los Rojiblancos, while 56 games have been drawn.
The teams’ most recent La Liga meeting was in Catalunya in December 2014, with Atletico claiming a 2-1 away triumph. Barca led through Pedri’s opening goal, but the Madrid club netted via Rodrigo de Paul and Alexander Sorloth to claim all three points.
