The upcoming clash between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid is more than just a normal League game, it’s a season-defining fixture for either team. Here is why this is a must-win game for Barcelona.
Previous Meetings
Atletico Madrid is the only team Barcelona could not beat in Copa del Rey and La Liga. Despite Barcelona being the better team in the game, dominating possession, more chances created, better XG, Atletico always find a way towards the end.
This happened twice, firstly they won 2-1 in La Liga at Barcelona’s home with a last-minute winner, then they got a dramatic 4-4 draw in the Copa del Rey at Barcelona’s home. This time Barcelona have a harder test at Atleti’s home. This game could be a League decider.
Why does Barcelona have the Edge?
Barcelona holds the edge over Atletico due to these 3 reasons:
📌Barcelona La Liga Ranking– Barcelona are at the top of the table with one game in hand, if they win this game they can increase the gap up top. Right now this is 3 horse race between Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atletico. If Barcelona win this game, they can potentially reduce Atleiti’s chances of winning the League.
📌Atletico No Rest– Atletico played against Getafe last weekend, then played against Real Madrid on Wednesday and will face Barcelona on Sunday. They only got a resting period of 5 days. Barcelona had a resting period of 8 days.
📌Low Morale- Atleti lost their last 2 games which could help Barcelona as their morale will be a bit better.
Expected Lineups
Atletico Madrid’s possible starting lineup: Oblak; Molina, Gimenez, Lenglet, Reinildo; Simeone, De Paul, Barrios, Gallagher; Griezmann, Alvarez Credits: https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/
Barcelona’s possible starting lineup: Szczesny; Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsi, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski Credits: https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/