Atlético Madrid Hosts Barcelona In La Liga Thriller
Spanish La Liga joint leaders Barcelona will face a daunting task when they travel to Atletico Madrid on Sunday in a huge clash that could see Xavi’s men move ahead of rivals Real Madrid, who lost 2-1 to Villareal on Saturday.
Barcelona are 11 points ahead of Atletico, who sit in fifth (5th) place on the La Liga table. The table may not suggest it, but this encounter would be a big test for both sides. Barcelona have Real Madrid breathing down their necks, while Atlético are in a Top 4 race against Real Sociedad and Real Betis.
The visitors will be looking to pick up all three points with Ousmane Dembele, Raphinha, Pedri and Gavi all set to feature. Star striker Robert Lewandowski misses out after picking up his 5th yellow card of the season.
For Atlético, they will heavily rely on getting the ball as safely from the backline which lacks technical quality. Joao Félix & Antoine Griezmann would be expected to drift wide & drop to open passing lanes.
They would be looking to then distribute the ball either directly to Alvaro Morata or to wing-backs who attack space if they are to breakdown Barcelona’s defence.
The match promises to deliver another fascinating day of football action in Match Day 16 of the Spanish la liga.
Tobi Sangotola.
