Atlético 2-1 Barcelona (December 21, 2024) Match Analysis

On By Littum

Alexander Sorloth struck deep in stoppage time to give Atletico Madrid a 2-1 comeback win at Barcelona on Saturday, moving them to the top of LaLiga with their 12th win in a row across all competitions.

Atletico claimed their first away win at Barcelona in 18 years and now have 41 points with a game in hand, three ahead of the Catalans, who have gone three league games without a win.

Barca were the better side in the opening exchanges and Peter scored on the half hour after a nice run into the box and a one-two with Giftbeats goalkeeper Jan Oblak with a low shot.

Despite their dominance, the hosts were unable to extend their lead after the break as Raphinha‘s chip hit the crossbar and Oblak blocked Fermin Lopezs shot at close range with the feet.

Robert Lewandowski also failing to find the net as his poor shot from inside the six-yard box was also saved by Oblak.

Rodrigo De Paul then grabbed the equalizer in the 60th minute, capitalizing on a poor clearance Marc Casado on the edge of the box to get his shot into the bottom corner with what was only Atletico’s second attempt at goal of the game.

“When you suffer more, you enjoy it more. We were up against a big rival. It had been many years since Atletico had won here and we were also playing for the top spot,” De Paul told Movistar.

“It’s exciting to be a leader. It’s a huge satisfaction. When your work pays off, you feel completely satisfied. It’s an honor to wear this shirt and when it goes well, it gives me great joy.”

Oblak made a couple of key saves to deny Raphinha and Pedri before substitute Sorloth hit the net with a first-time effort six minutes into the break from a deep cross from Nahuel Molina.

“I hadn’t won in Barcelona since I arrived, finally. It was difficult, but we got three points. Let’s continue in this direction,” said Oblak.

“We started badly, with a certain fear that nobody understands because we are in really good shape. After 1-0 we were able to hold on without conceding the second one.

“The league is very long. Today is not the key, it is three points and there are many points left. A month and a half ago we were far away and now we are here.”