Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid

Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys sets the stage for La Liga’s top-table six-pointer between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

Barcelona generated an impressive 2.67 xG but couldn’t find the net in a gut-wrenching 1-0 home defeat to Leganes a week ago. As a result of another wasteful performance, Hansi Flick’s men have only claimed five of the possible 18 points across the last six La Liga rounds (W1, D2, L3), allowing Atletico Madrid to draw level on points! After winning their first five home league matches under the German tactician, the Catalan giants have lost the last two on the spin. Atletico Madrid”s visit could ease tensions at the club, considering Barca haven’t lost a home encounter against this opposition in the top flight since February 2006, going undefeated in their last 18 such duels (W13, D5). Extending that formidable run with another win would see Barcelona beat the capital-based powerhouse in six league meetings straight for the first time since 2013.

Firmly in the title picture after winning their last six La Liga fixtures in a row, Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone endeavors to lead his side to their first top-flight title since 2020/21. As one of Europe’s most in-form sides, ‘Los Colchoneros’ have won their last 11 games in all competitions, including six without conceding! Moreover, after a three-game winless run on the road in October (D1, L2), they’ve strung together six away wins, bagging 3+ goals in the last three. However, Simeone hasn’t fared well against Barcelona, losing 20 of his previous 36 managerial H2Hs, highlighting the magnitude of the task awaiting him this weekend. The division’s joint-best defense – only 11 goals conceded – must stand firm in Catalonia against the most prolific side in Europe’s traditional top-five leagues to help their manager improve his woeful record against ‘Los Blaugranas.’