Barcelona produced a strong comeback performance to defeat Atletico Madrid 3–1 on Tuesday, moving four points clear at the top of La Liga.
Alex Baena gave Atletico the lead, but Raphinha equalised before Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres completed the turnaround to end Atletico’s impressive run of 13 consecutive league matches without defeat.
Barcelona could have secured an even more comfortable win had Robert Lewandowski not fired a first-half penalty over the bar.
Second-placed Real Madrid visit Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday as they aim to reduce the gap, while Diego Simeone’s side remain fourth, six points behind the Catalans.
The victory marked Barcelona’s fifth straight league win since their Clasico defeat to Real Madrid in October. Although performances during that run have been inconsistent, the display against a direct title rival provided a much-needed boost for Hansi Flick’s team.
Barca were without Ronald Araujo, who is reportedly on a mental health break, as well as the ill Frenkie de Jong and other long-term absentees.
Following a 3–0 Champions League loss at Chelsea and a shaky win over Alaves, nerves were evident early at Camp Nou. Atletico struck first, capitalising on Barcelona’s high defensive line. Baena raced through to score past Joan Garcia, with VAR confirming he was level with Pau Cubarsi in the build-up.
Barcelona responded swiftly, equalising in the 26th minute when Pedri—back in the starting lineup—slipped a pass to Raphinha, who rounded Jan Oblak and finished calmly.
Lewandowski then squandered a golden chance to put Barcelona ahead, sending a penalty high and wide after Dani Olmo was fouled by Pablo Barrios. The striker nearly redeemed himself, but Oblak produced a superb save to claw out his header from Lamine Yamal’s cross.
Raphinha missed another opportunity early in the second half, and Atletico threatened through Giuliano Simeone, who failed to connect cleanly with a clear sight of goal.
Barcelona eventually took control, with Olmo and Torres finishing well to secure a crucial win and strengthen their position at the top of the table.
