Xavi Hernandes’ new FC Barcelona defeated the defending champions to show that there’s still a lot of fight left in them.
The Catalonian club made several changes in the winter transfer window. They brought in the likes of Ferran Torres, Adama Traore, and Aubameyang from Premier League to strengthen their squad. And they definitely looked the better side in this match.
Atletico Madrid, who has not been played to its potential, scored the opener in the 10th minute. For a moment, it felt as if it was going to be another lousy day for Barcelona.
The Spanish giants had other ideas, though, as a minute later, they equalized. Veteran Alves found Alba with a great cross, and the left-back scored a perfect volley.
FC Barcelona plays great attacking game
It was indeed scintillating scenes at Camp Nou, as Barcelona scored another goal within 10 minutes. Once again, it was a tremendous link-up play between two Barca players.
This time, the re-debutant Traore picked up Gavi from the right-hand side. The midfielder made no mistake with a header to make it 2-0 for Barcelona.
Suddenly the game seemed to have turned on its heels. Atletico, who was supposed to be aggressive of the two teams, found themself chasing the game.
Barcelona played a high line, with excellent pressing football. The most significant aspect of their game was their possession retention. Whenever they lost the ball, they made sure to retain it before Atletico could make the most of it.
Possession is not enough in football if you don’t move the ball enough. However, Barcelona was making it move at an incredible pace, which was evident from their third goal.
Once again, Dani Alves made an impact in the 43rd minute by delivering a superb freekick. It was met by a header by Pique which ruffled the bar. While Ferran Torres was ready to take a shot, unfortunately he missed, but Ronald Aurajo didn’t.
Result? You can guess it, Barcelona got 3-0 ahead of Atletico at the stroke of halftime.
Atletico Madrid failed to make a comeback
The second half was no different. Barcelona started it with a bang, as Alves thrashed it home with the first time shot to put the game to bed in the 49th minute.
Later, Luis Suarez pulled one goal back for Atletico Madrid, but it was too little too late already. There was nothing left in the match for Atletico. They looked defeated for most of the game, so it turned out to be.
The final whistle confirmed that Barcelona beat Atletico Marid by a considerable margin of 4-2.
With these crucial three points, Barcelona enters the top four of La Liga.
