Barcelona outlast Atletico in Camp Nou clash

WEB DESK: Barcelona strengthened their grip on La Liga with a hard-fought 3-1 comeback victory over rivals Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou. The win extends their lead at the summit to four points, applying pressure on chasing Real Madrid.

Despite falling behind to a 19th-minute breakaway goal from Atletico’s Álex Baena, the hosts displayed resilience. Raphinha leveled the score seven minutes later, finishing a superb Pedri pass. While Robert Lewandowski uncharacteristically missed a penalty before halftime, Dani Olmo’s precise strike in the 65th minute put Barcelona ahead for good. Substitute Ferran Torres sealed the crucial three points with a stoppage-time tap-in.

Flick finds relief in gritty performance

The result offers welcome relief for manager Hansi Flick, whose team has faced scrutiny despite their league position. The victory was built on a spirited response to adversity, though concerns remain after another game where a risky defensive line was frequently exposed. Atletico’s Antoine Griezmann and Thiago Almada spurned late chances to equalize before Torres finally killed off the contest.

Raphinha shines in key victory

Raphinha was named man of the match for his dynamic, goal-scoring performance in his return from injury. “These three points are very important and they could decide the league,” the Brazilian said post-match. While Barcelona was not at its fluid best, the capacity to grind out a result against a direct rival marks a significant step in their title defense. Atletico, meanwhile, sees its winning run end and remains in fourth place.