Barca Blaugranes - La Liga: FC Barcelona vs Atlético Madrid: Full Match Coverage#GraciesTitohttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47187/barca-fave.png2015-01-13T20:32:12+01:00http://www.barcablaugranes.com/rss/stream/72897982015-01-13T20:32:12+01:002015-01-13T20:32:12+01:00FC Barcelona 3-1 Atletico Madrid: Player Ratings
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<p>A detailed, player-by-player breakdown of Barcelona's thrilling La Liga win over Atletico Madrid</p> <p>
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<span>Claudio Bravo</span><br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.8</i></td>
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<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Touches: <b>41</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>30</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>83</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Shots Faced: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Saves Made: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Interceptions</span>: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span>says:</b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i> 7.5</i></b></span>
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<p>All things considered, Bravo had a very easy game in goal for Barcelona. He had to make a couple of fairly straightforward saves, but had absolutely no chance of stopping Mario Mandžukić’s powerful shot from the spot. Throughout the game Bravo was very calm on the ball, even though he was often under pressure from the Atleti forwards. He was lucky not be beaten about ten minutes before the final whistle’s as he left a juicy rebound in the danger area after a shot from the left side. Also, he left the line prematurely in the very last minute of the game when he was again lucky nobody headed the ball into the back of the empty net.</p>
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<span>Dani Alves</span><br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">7.5</td>
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<span class="statwords">Minutes played: <b>90</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>91</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Passes: <b>73</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>92</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0/0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>4</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Turnovers</span>: <b>4</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Fouls: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Interceptions</span>: <b>0</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>7.0</i></b></span>
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<p>After a long time Alves again put in a very solid performance, one that slightly resembled the Alves of the old, in attack at least. His passing in the final third was a joy to behold, leading directly to Barcelona’s first goal and supplying a great ball to Messi late in the first half that almost resulted in another goal. Defensively Alves left much to be desired, though even there an improvement was noticeable. That being said, the only time Arda Turan found any real success in the game was when he switched flanks and faced Alves, though the Brazilian did very when going against Koke.</p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Javier Mascherano<br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.0</i></td>
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<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>69</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>65</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>92</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Interceptions: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Fouls</span>: <b>3</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
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<p>Usually, when the center-back pairing of Pique and Mascherano was on the pitch, it was the latter who was doing most of the work. This time it was the opposite. That doesn’t mean Mascherano was having a poor game, or that he wasn’t in the position to make plays, it just means that Pique dealt with the danger before it got to Mascherano.</p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Gerard Pique</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.4</i></td>
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<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Touches: <b>66</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>49</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>88%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Interceptions: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: <b>10</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won: <b>6</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Fouls: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>9.0</i></b></span>
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<p>If Pique plays every game of the season like he did the one against Atletico Madrid, nobody will try to sell him ever again. It was a vintage Pique performance. Positionally he was excellent all game long, making defensive play after defensive play, whether the ball was on the ground or in the air. In the past Pique was often exposed in the air game, but this time he was an absolute beast, winning all six of the aerial duels he was involved in, against what is one of the most effective teams in that aspect of the game. I can only remember one play on which he was actually beaten - late in the game when Arda sent a lovely ball through his legs, but that was it.</p>
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<span>Jordi Alba</span><br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.0</i></td>
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<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>75</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>53</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>94</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>1/1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>7</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Key Passes</span></span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won</span></span>: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><i><b>8.0</b></i></span>
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<p class="MsoNormal">Alba was all over the left side of the pitch, making plays on offense as well as on defense. I can’t remember the last time Arda had this little impact on a game in recent memory for Atletico, which is a testament of how well Alba closed him down. His passing also helped Barcelona break down Atletico’s defense on numerous occasions. He even fired a powerful shot on target that caused some problems for Moya and led to a chance for Suarez.</p>
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<span>Sergio Busquets</span><br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.9</i></td>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Minutes played: <b>90</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>81</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>76</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>92</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won: <b>0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Key passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: 7.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<p>With Atlético very strong on the counterattack, it was important Busquets stopped any attacks before they had a chance to flourish into something dangerous. The stats show that he performed well with the Madrid side only managing two shots on target and their goal coming from the penalty spot. His passing, as usual, was excellent.</p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Ivan Rakitić<br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.8</i></td>
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<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>65</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>61</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>50</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>80</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>1/0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Turnovers:</span><span class="statwords"><b> 2</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span></span></span></span></span>: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: 7.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<p class="MsoNormal">A good performance from the Croatian in a game in which the spotlight was largely stolen by the front three. Rakitić’s passing helped to maintain control in the midfield but some of them were more wayward than we’ve come to expect from a Barcelona midfielder. 80% passing success rate can be improved on, but overall a good night for the summer signing.</p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Andres Iniesta<br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.0</i></td>
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<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>75</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>61</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>86</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>/0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span></span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: 7.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<p>There were signs Iniesta was getting back to his very best against one of the hardest to break down teams in the league. His movement was excellent, drifting across all areas of the pitch to find space and create danger. His close control helped work the ball into dangerous areas as well however he needs to resurrect that devastating final pass that really creates chances.</p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Luis Suarez<br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.6</i></td>
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<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>39</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>26</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>77</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>2/2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>6</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Ahmed says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.5</i></b></span>
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<p class="MsoNormal">Worked incredibly hard and assisted Neymar’s goal. Took his goal with aplomb and impressively had 6 turnovers. Showed a great understanding with Messi and Neymar and Atléti simply couldn't live with him. He was yellow carded and substituted in injury time.</p>
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<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi" class="sbn-auto-link">Lionel Messi</a><br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">9.4</td>
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<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>59</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>82</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>7/3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: <b>12</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Ahmed says: 9.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal">12 completed dribbles is an outstanding return against any La Liga team, let alone one of the best and meanest defences in the league. There were quite a few stellar performances, yet he still managed to steal the show with a man-of-the-match performance. Played a big role in the first goal, assisted the second and scored the third. More than that, Messi looked dangerous every time he got the ball. May have hand-balled in the build-up to the Suarez goal, but he was unfairly adjudged to have conceded a penalty. Yellow carded for a high foot when challenging for the ball with Moya.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Neymar<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">9.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Minutes played: <b>90</b></span></div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>67</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>45</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>64</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>5</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>/1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>6</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span>: <b>6</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Ahmed </b></i></span>says: 9.0</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Opened the scoring early on with a fine sliding shot illustrating his fantastic instincts, improvisation and reflexes. Neymar was on the end of foul-after-foul, with the lowlight being a horrific tackle by Gimenez which got none of the ball and a large chunk of his ankle. He caused the Atléti defence no end of problems, tearing through the defence at ease with his skills and pace in wide as well as central areas. Six completed dribbles is very impressive, but missed a good header soon after re-entering the pitch after being treated for his bloodied ankle.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Rafinha<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>6.6</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="vertical-align: top; font-size: 12px;">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>100</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Clearances</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><i><b>Inder says: N/A</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<span> </span>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Played final few minutes when Lucho obliged and allowed the crowd to give Rakitic the applause he deserved.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Pedro<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">6.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>0</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Inder </b></i></span>says: N/A</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Came on in injury time.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">The Team</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">
<i>9.1</i><br>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>604</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>86</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>17</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>/7</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>20</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Aerial Battles Won: <b>56</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won/Committed: <b>18/16</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Inder </b></i></span>says: 9.0</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Without a doubt the best 45 minutes Barca has played since that Milan game. Barca were just brilliant throughout and all the cynics (especially yours truly) really must be surprised by the sheer will and defiance that the starting XI and now, without a doubt, our best XI displayed. There were a few moments of pressure in the second half but it is definitely a good sign that the team has now seen themselves at their very best. Let's hope the taste of blood increases their hunger. Next logical step in the path to trophies would be to deliver a similar performance against a tough opponent----away from home.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">
<span>Luis Enrique</span><br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.7</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont">
<br>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Inder </b></i></span>says: 9.0</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Well, consider me humbled, Lucho. You have officially convinced me that you are capable of producing in the tactical sense. Furthermore, Enrique seems to have gotten his idea across to the players. This team was motivated, working hard and with a clear understanding with respect to positioning on and off the ball. So kudos to Luis Enrique and let's all hope that consistency is the name of the game from now on.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">MOTM - <span>Lionel Messi</span><br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>73%</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<br>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: Neymar</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p>Once again Messi ran away with the Man of the Match award, and deservedly so, but I had to give my vote to Neymar, who not only scored, but somehow managed to play the full 90 minutes with basically a hole in his ankle. Neymar finished the community part of the ratings with 20% of the votes.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>
<link rel="stylesheet" href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/assets/3604021/nextclicks.css">
</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/1/13/7533393/la-liga-fc-barcelona-3-1-atletico-madrid-player-ratingsBostjan CernensekSam CooperInder MethilAhmed Shahin2015-01-12T00:19:02+01:002015-01-12T00:19:02+01:00Highlights: FC Barcelona 3-1 Atletico Madrid
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JRKS5zd0jFKCfOvGOpZpnOXdsak=/2x0:2999x1998/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45197102/461350114.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Alex Caparros/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Highlights from Barcelona's incredibly important win over Atletico Madrid</p> <p align="justify">Well that was some game. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> came out firing on all cylinders in the first half, forcing the opponents to play as poor of a defensive game they have played since Diego Simeone has taken over the reigns. Led by their front three, Barcelona were creating chance after chance, but even though several of them went begging, the Catalans still finished the half up by a score of 2-0.</p>
<p align="justify">The second half didn't see Barcelona dominate their opponents to the tune of the first as Atletico did well to assert their style of play, their physical style of play. Aided by some interesting calls from good friend Alberto Undiano Mallenco, Atletico were able to get on the scoreboard through a well converted penalty kick, but Barcelona countered with a late goal of their own to secure the win for the home side.</p>
<p align="justify"><link rel="stylesheet" href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/assets/3604021/nextclicks.css"></p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/1/12/7529077/match-highlights-fc-barcelona-3-1-atletico-madridBostjan Cernensek2015-01-11T23:34:39+01:002015-01-11T23:34:39+01:00FC Barcelona 3-1 Atletico Madrid: Match Review
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/lsFDPRyJ7QW-0ofUOVu8gRzRjXU=/0x157:1995x1487/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45196966/461345666.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Alex Caparros/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Recap of Barcelona thrilling win over Atletico Madrid</p> <p align="justify">Barcelona came out victorious in what was without a doubt the most anticipated match of the 18th round of La Liga. Barcelona were led by their star forward trio of Neymar, <span>Lionel Messi</span> and Luis Suarez, all of whom scored a goal. Atletico Madrid, however, were only able to score a single goal from a penalty, along with handing out several bumps and bruises.</p>
<table border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><br></td>
<td><b>FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a></b></td>
<td><b>Atletico Madrid<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Possession</b></td>
<td>68</td>
<td>32</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Total Shots</b></td>
<td>17</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Shots on Target</b></td>
<td>7</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Corners</b></td>
<td>1</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Fouls</b></td>
<td>16</td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Offsides</b></td>
<td>5</td>
<td>3<br>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Yellow Cards</b></td>
<td>3</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Red Cards</b></td>
<td>0</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p></p>
<p align="justify">After surprising fans, disappointing them even, with the starting line-ups in recent games, <span>Luis Enrique</span> named his strongest XI in what was one of Barcelona's most important, if not the most important game of the season so far. A win would see Barcelona remain in close pursuit of eternal rival, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a>, while a loss, a draw even, would remove them even further from first place in the standings.</p>
<p align="justify">The match coverage started with a joyous occasion, as Messi was honored by the LFP for breaking Telmo Zarra's long-standing record for the league's top goal-scorer. Proceedings continued with a moment of silence for the victims of recent attacks in France, accompanied with messages "Tots som Charlie".</p>
<p align="justify">Atletico Madrid came storming out of the gate, threatening as early as 15 second into the game, but the Barcelona center-back duo of Gerard Pique and <span>Javier Mascherano</span> were up to the early task. Atletico tried to take a page from <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/real-sociedad">Real Sociedad's</a> book, but this time around Barcelona's defense reacted better.</p>
<p align="justify">After the early pressure, Barcelona were able to assert their possession play, but as has been the case since Diego Simeone took over as coach Atletico were defensively extremely disciplined. But as Barcelona were able to consistently control the ball, apart from a couple short periods of time, they were bound to eventually break down the defense.</p>
<p align="justify">The first such occasion came in the 9th minute when Neymar made a strong run across the pitch and nicely found Messi on the right. Messi immediately turned toward goal, made a couple of steps forward and fired a right-footed shot, but it only hit the outside part of the net. Three minutes later Barcelona had another chance to open the scoring, and this time they were successful. Messi dazzled everybody on the right with some nifty moves and sent a great ball to the middle where Suarez was wide open. However, the Uruguayan reacted poorly to the ball, only deflecting it slightly. But as luck would have it the ball continued its way to Neymar on the far post who was able to slide to send the ball into the back of the net.</p>
<p align="justify">The very next minute Barcelona had another good chance to score. <span>Jordi Alba</span> almost surprised Miguel Angel Moya with a shot from the left side, but the goalkeeper made a strong save. He was, however, unable to fully control the rebound and gave up a chance to Suarez to score, but he had barely any angle to shoot and Moya was able to make the save.</p>
<p align="justify">In the 16th minute José Giménez made Neymar pay for the goal he scored just minutes earlier. After a set play from a free-kick that saw Neymar attempt a shot on target on the edge of the box Giménez slid in studs first and caught the Brazilian square in the ankle. The referee, the well-known Alberto Undiano Mallenco, swallowed his whistle and allowed the play to continue. It was a challenge that could've easily had Giménez sent to an early shower. Though Mallenco was quickly shown the error of his ways as Neymar quickly showed him the heavily bloodied sock. Neymar was carted off the pitch but he quickly returned, bloody sock and all.</p>
<p align="justify">That started a sequence of heavy tackling, dirty tackling even, that saw the visiting side only pick up a single yellow card. But while Barcelona players certainly picked up some bruises during that time it hardly discouraged them from launching attack after attack toward Moya's goal.</p>
<p align="justify">In the 23rd minute Neymar had an open look on goal from well inside the penalty area, but his header inexplicably missed the target. The chance was created just about solely by Suarez who made a run down the left side, leaving Giménez in his dust, but the finish from the Brazilian was lacking. About five minute later Neymar led the counter attack and again found Messi on the right side who quickly darted toward goal, but his shot was well saved by Moya. The rebound fell right back to Messi, who tried to send it to Neymar in the middle, but Mallenco blew the play dead for a foul by Neymar in front of the goal.</p>
<p align="justify">Tensions started to boil over three minutes later, after Mario Mandžukić brought down <span>Sergio Busquets</span> and then angrily talked/protested/yelled at the Barcelona midfielder, presumably for going down too quickly. The two had to be separated by teammates and struggled to calm down for some time.</p>
<p align="justify">But even that didn't seem to faze Barcelona who doubled their lead just two minutes after the incident. This time it was Messi's turn to go on a long run straight at the Atletico defense, but as soon as he encountered traffic he passed the ball through the defenders, right into the path of Suarez. Suarez might have missed some easy chances in his Barcelona career so far, but this was a chance he wasn't going to miss. The visitors had something to argue about that goal, however, as Mandžukić and Diego Godin protested that Messi handled the ball when he received it.</p>
<p align="justify">Barcelona would have one more chance to add to their lead in the first half as <span>Dani Alves</span> found Messi near the penalty spot with a brilliant high ball, but the Argentine just missed the goal with the header. That would be the last chance of the half in which Barcelona barely allowed Atletico get a whiff of the ball and played an all-around great half, arguably the best half since Lucho took over as manager of the team.</p>
<p align="justify">Similarly to the first half Atletico against started the second half with some early pressure, but like in the first half Barcelona again withstood the pressure and then started to control the ball. With Barcelona holding on to the ball Atletico started to assert their physical play. They also started to pressure the ball-carrier high up the pitch which allowed Barcelona some more space once they've gotten over the halfway line. But that process was made more difficult because of the high pressure.</p>
<p align="justify">Mallenco struck again in the 56th minute when he pointed to the spot after Jesus Gamez came tumbling down in the penalty area after the slighted of touches by Messi on. Gamez even hesitated in his process of falling down, but because the ball escaped him he decided to fall down and won a penalty because of it. Mandžukić took responsibility for it and powered it straight up the middle, right under the crossbar to halve Barcelona's lead.</p>
<p align="justify">With Atletico's physical play intensifying and the lack of punishment from the referee it was becoming more and more clear that Mallenco has completely lost control of the game. And when Ivan Rakitić was mauled in the penalty area by Giménez, not touched like Gamez was, but mauled, several Barcelona players wanted a penalty of their own. But they would only see Suarez pick a yellow card. Barcelona would continue to see more of the ball, but the routes that were so exposed in the first half were no longer open.</p>
<p align="justify">Simeone made his first substitution of the match in the 68th minute when he brought documented Barcelona-killer, <span>Fernando Torres</span>, on the pitch in place of defensively oriented Gabi. Six minutes later Simeone further improved Ateltico's aerial game by taking the surprisingly quiet <span>Antoine Griezmann</span> off the pitch and replaced him with Raul Garcia.</p>
<p align="justify">With it now only being a one-goal game Barcelona didn't look as comfortable in attack as they did in the first half and you could feel it in the air that Atletico were going to get their chance to at least tie the game. The first one came in the 77th minute when a dangerous cross was sent to a wide open Torres in the middle, but <span>Claudio Bravo</span> left the line in time to collect the loose ball.</p>
<p align="justify">The next one came just two minutes later, when a corner kick was never cleared beyond 25 yards. Arda Turan made things happen with a lovely ball through the legs of Pique and the ball was then dangerously sent in front of goal. Bravo got a hand on it, but only directed it back into the danger area, but luckily nobody was there to put the ball into the back of the unguarded net.</p>
<p align="justify">With more and more space allowed by Atletico in their third, Barcelona had some good looks on goal in the last stage of the game. The first came in the 84th minute when Neymar beautifully found Messi on the opposite side of the pitch, but the Argentine's shot was too central to pose a real threat to Moya. Barcelona finally put the game out of reach in the 87th minute when some great link up between Suarez, Messi and Rakitić led to what in the end turned out to be a very fortuitous scoring opportunity as Rakitić's back pass missed the intended target, Messi. However, Garcia reacted poorly to the ball coming through and it ricochet back to Messi who tapped the ball into the back of the net.</p>
<p align="justify">Over the last few minutes Lucho completed a couple substitutions to take some time off the clock as Rakitić and Suarez were taken off the pitch and were replaced by Rafinha and Pedro. Neymar, on the other hand, showed some incredible will power and strength, surviving the full 90 minutes despite suffering six fouls and a handful of non-calls, including the aforementioned blow to the ankle.</p>
<p align="justify">This performance could turn out to be the one that turns the season around for Barcelona, or it could just be a single bright spot on what will be an unremarkable season. It's too soon to say, but for now let's enjoy the victory and see where the season, Lucho and this board take Barcelona.</p>
<p></p>
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<h3>Roll Call:</h3>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<thead>
<tr>
<th colspan="2">Roll Call Info</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="150">Total comments</td>
<td>1,000</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>Total commenters</td>
<td>78</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Commenter list</td>
<td>
<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/0nk0">0nk0</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Abdul95">Abdul95</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Abohabiba">Abohabiba</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Adi.N00r">Adi.N00r</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Alphie%20Ali">Alphie Ali</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Anders%20Thomassen">Anders Thomassen</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Anirudh_Kul">Anirudh_Kul</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Antonio%20Moreira">Antonio Moreira</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AraibKarim">AraibKarim</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AzBlaug">AzBlaug</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcaBarca">BarcaBarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bostjan%20Cernensek">Bostjan Cernensek</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ChalkLitIScream">ChalkLitIScream</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/CifuentesErick">CifuentesErick</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/CriRo7">CriRo7</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Cule4life">Cule4life</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Delano%20Heerkens">Delano Heerkens</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DevilWithin">DevilWithin</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Eddie%20Pundell">Eddie Pundell</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/El_Illusionista">El_Illusionista</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCB4Ever">FCB4Ever</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCB4Lyfe">FCB4Lyfe</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCBMo">FCBMo</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCBblaug">FCBblaug</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/First_Cule">First_Cule</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ian%20Reynolds">Ian Reynolds</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/IheartFCB">IheartFCB</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Inder%20Methil">Inder Methil</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Jose-Armendariz">Jose-Armendariz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JoseM14">JoseM14</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/KiwiBarca">KiwiBarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/LaSenyera">LaSenyera</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Leo4President">Leo4President</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/LotusV3">LotusV3</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/LuisTeeth">LuisTeeth</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/MiB75">MiB75</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Navz">Navz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Nokke2">Nokke2</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/PG9">PG9</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Piqu%C3%A9nbauer">Piquénbauer</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Rajesh1101s">Rajesh1101s</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Richzorz">Richzorz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ruy%20Diaz">Ruy Diaz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Sarthak%20Kumar">Sarthak Kumar</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Scratch%20and%20Snif">Scratch and Snif</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SlightlyInsaneCule">SlightlyInsaneCule</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Som-i-Serem">Som-i-Serem</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Staralfur">Staralfur</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Steven%20Cordero">Steven Cordero</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Tokjee">Tokjee</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Uncharted_Almo">Uncharted_Almo</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/VarkeychanT">VarkeychanT</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Varungrover">Varungrover</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ViscaViscaBarca">ViscaViscaBarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Willis1984">Willis1984</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/abdulla0207">abdulla0207</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ade%20fox">ade fox</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/askhanna">askhanna</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/avyator">avyator</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/chelseaman101">chelseaman101</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/craig00000">craig00000</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/farzan">farzan</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/feeya7">feeya7</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/footballfordoze">footballfordoze</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/iAmJustin">iAmJustin</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/llamas612">llamas612</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/luck-ycoltsfan19">luck-ycoltsfan19</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/magical_messi">magical_messi</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/messism">messism</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/msalmanz">msalmanz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/oddsbodiSkins">oddsbodiSkins</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/pagesiderageside">pagesiderageside</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/passenger">passenger</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/shreyarora">shreyarora</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/shubham2806">shubham2806</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/syredeathtrooper">syredeathtrooper</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/uday%20kakoti">uday kakoti</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/vince.chezo.1">vince.chezo.1</a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>Story URLs</td>
<td>
<div><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/1/11/7527821/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-atletico-madrid-live-game-thread">http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/1/11/7527821/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-atletico-madrid-live-game-thread</a></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<thead>
<tr>
<th width="20">#</th>
<th>Commenter</th>
<th># Comments</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Anders%20Thomassen">Anders Thomassen</a></td>
<td>97</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/KiwiBarca">KiwiBarca</a></td>
<td>53</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/craig00000">craig00000</a></td>
<td>53</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/abdulla0207">abdulla0207</a></td>
<td>52</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AraibKarim">AraibKarim</a></td>
<td>49</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>6</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Som-i-Serem">Som-i-Serem</a></td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Uncharted_Almo">Uncharted_Almo</a></td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>8</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ian%20Reynolds">Ian Reynolds</a></td>
<td>33</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcaBarca">BarcaBarca</a></td>
<td>30</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>10</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/msalmanz">msalmanz</a></td>
<td>29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Scratch%20and%20Snif">Scratch and Snif</a></td>
<td>29</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>12</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/PG9">PG9</a></td>
<td>27</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Delano%20Heerkens">Delano Heerkens</a></td>
<td>26</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>14</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/syredeathtrooper">syredeathtrooper</a></td>
<td>26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ruy%20Diaz">Ruy Diaz</a></td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>16</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Abohabiba">Abohabiba</a></td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCBMo">FCBMo</a></td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>18</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCBblaug">FCBblaug</a></td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Richzorz">Richzorz</a></td>
<td>21</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>20</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/SlightlyInsaneCule">SlightlyInsaneCule</a></td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCB4Ever">FCB4Ever</a></td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>22</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/oddsbodiSkins">oddsbodiSkins</a></td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/IheartFCB">IheartFCB</a></td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>24</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bostjan%20Cernensek">Bostjan Cernensek</a></td>
<td>13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/messism">messism</a></td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>26</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Abdul95">Abdul95</a></td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Staralfur">Staralfur</a></td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>28</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/VarkeychanT">VarkeychanT</a></td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ChalkLitIScream">ChalkLitIScream</a></td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>30</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/El_Illusionista">El_Illusionista</a></td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/LuisTeeth">LuisTeeth</a></td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>32</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCB4Lyfe">FCB4Lyfe</a></td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>33</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Eddie%20Pundell">Eddie Pundell</a></td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>34</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Rajesh1101s">Rajesh1101s</a></td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Steven%20Cordero">Steven Cordero</a></td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>36</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/magical_messi">magical_messi</a></td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>37</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Willis1984">Willis1984</a></td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>38</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/pagesiderageside">pagesiderageside</a></td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>39</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/CriRo7">CriRo7</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>40</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Navz">Navz</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>41</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Inder%20Methil">Inder Methil</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>42</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/MiB75">MiB75</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>43</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/chelseaman101">chelseaman101</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>44</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AzBlaug">AzBlaug</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>45</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/iAmJustin">iAmJustin</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>46</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/footballfordoze">footballfordoze</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>47</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/LaSenyera">LaSenyera</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>48</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/vince.chezo.1">vince.chezo.1</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>49</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Jose-Armendariz">Jose-Armendariz</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>50</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/farzan">farzan</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>51</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/CifuentesErick">CifuentesErick</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>52</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/0nk0">0nk0</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>53</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/llamas612">llamas612</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>54</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/passenger">passenger</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>55</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Antonio%20Moreira">Antonio Moreira</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>56</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Nokke2">Nokke2</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>57</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Adi.N00r">Adi.N00r</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>58</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/uday%20kakoti">uday kakoti</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>59</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ade%20fox">ade fox</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>60</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/askhanna">askhanna</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>61</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Alphie%20Ali">Alphie Ali</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>62</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/avyator">avyator</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>63</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Sarthak%20Kumar">Sarthak Kumar</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>64</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Tokjee">Tokjee</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>65</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/First_Cule">First_Cule</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>66</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ViscaViscaBarca">ViscaViscaBarca</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>67</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/shubham2806">shubham2806</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>68</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/luck-ycoltsfan19">luck-ycoltsfan19</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>69</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Varungrover">Varungrover</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>70</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/shreyarora">shreyarora</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>71</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/LotusV3">LotusV3</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>72</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Leo4President">Leo4President</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>73</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JoseM14">JoseM14</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>74</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Cule4life">Cule4life</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>75</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/feeya7">feeya7</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>76</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DevilWithin">DevilWithin</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>77</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Piqu%C3%A9nbauer">Piquénbauer</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>78</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Anirudh_Kul">Anirudh_Kul</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>
<link rel="stylesheet" href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/assets/3604021/nextclicks.css">
</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/1/11/7528517/la-liga-fc-barcelona-3-1-atletico-madrid-match-reviewBostjan Cernensek2015-01-11T19:57:49+01:002015-01-11T19:57:49+01:00Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid: Live Game Thread
<figure>
<img alt="Lionel Messi approves this lineup" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GbNcEUs4hW2YRXwmtUI02NMLXs4=/0x0:4915x3277/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45196130/461193714.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Lionel Messi approves this lineup | David Ramos/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Live game thread for the match between FC Barcelona and Atletico Madrid</p> <p align="center">La Liga: Jornada 18<br>Camp Nou, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a><br>Kickoff: Sunday, 11 January 2014, 21:00 CET<br>Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco</p>
<p align="justify">Line-ups:</p>
<p align="justify">FC Barcelona (4-3-3): 13. <span>Claudio Bravo</span>; 22. <span>Dani Alves</span>, 3. Gerard Piqué, 14. <span>Javier Mascherano</span>, 18. <span>Jordi Alba</span>; 5. <span>Sergio Busquets</span>, 4. Ivan Rakitic, 8. Andrés Iniesta; 10. <span>Lionel Messi</span>, 9. Luis Suárez, 11. Neymar</p>
<p align="justify">Substitutes: 1. Marc-Andre ter Stegen, 21. Adriano Correia, 15. <span>Marc Bartra</span>, 20. <span>Sergi Roberto</span>, 12. Rafinha, 7. Pedro Rodríguez, 31. Munir El Haddadi<span></span></p>
<p align="justify">Coach: <span>Luis Enrique</span></p>
<p align="justify">***</p>
<p align="justify">Atletico Madrid (4-4-2): 1. Miguel Ángel Moyà; 20. Juanfran, 2. Diego Godín, 24. José Giménez, Jesús Gámez; 10. Arda Turan, Tiago Mendes, 15. Gabi, 6. Koke; 7. <span>Antoine Griezmann</span>, 9. Mario Mandžukić</p>
<p align="justify">Substitutes: 13. Jan Oblak, 23. Miranda, 3. Guilherme Siqueira, 4. Mario Suárez, 17. Saúl Ñíguez, 8. Raúl García, 19. <span>Fernando Torres</span></p>
<p align="justify">Coach: Diego Simeone</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/1/11/7527821/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-atletico-madrid-live-game-threadBostjan Cernensek2015-01-11T14:51:33+01:002015-01-11T14:51:33+01:00Barça Squad Named for Atlético Match
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<p>Coach Luis Enrique has selected 18 players for the clash with Atlético Madrid on Sunday</p> <p align="justify">The next <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> match is finally upon us, as the Blaugrana host <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.intothecalderon.com/">Atlético Madrid</a> in an all-important clash with title implications. It could be the last game under <span>Luis Enrique</span> as a manager, so he made sure he selected the best available squad.</p>
<p align="justify">And he did it. But there's one absentee: Xavi Hernández will miss his second straight match due to a right leg injury he picked up on Thursday morning, right before the game against Elche. Although the issue is not serious, three days of rest and rehab weren't enough to get Xavi ready for tonight's game, so he'll watch it from the stands.</p>
<p align="justify">Jérémy Mathieu is also out of the squad list. He has been given the medical green light, but he's not part of the 18-man lineup and will miss the game as well. Per Enrique's decision, Martín Montoya, Jordi Masip and Douglas will not play tonight.</p>
<p align="justify">These are the eighteen men selected by Lucho to be in uniform against Atlético:</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><b>Goalkeepers: </b>1. Marc-André ter Stegen, 13. <span>Claudio Bravo</span></p>
<p align="justify"><b>Defenders: </b>3. Gerard Piqué, 14. <span>Javier Mascherano</span>, 15. <span>Marc Bartra</span>, 18. <span>Jordi Alba</span>, 21. Adriano, 22. <span>Dani Alves</span></p>
<p align="justify"><b>Midfielders: </b>4. Ivan Rakitic, 5. <span>Sergio Busquets</span>, 8. Andrés Iniesta, 12. Rafinha Alcântara, 20. <span>Sergi Roberto</span></p>
<p align="justify"><b>Forwards: </b>7. Pedro Rodríguez, 9. Luis Suárez, 10. <span>Lionel Messi</span>, 11. Neymar Jr., 31. Munir El-Haddadi</p>
</blockquote>
<p align="justify"><b>Expected Starting Lineup (4-3-3):</b></p>
<p align="justify"><i>Bravo; Alves, Piqué, Mascherano, Alba; Busquets, Rakitic, Iniesta; Messi, Suárez, Neymar</i></p>
<p align="justify">The match starts at 21:00 CET, and you can follow and comment all the action right here, at Barça Blaugranes.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>VISCA EL BARÇA!</b></p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/1/11/7527485/fc-barcelona-squad-named-for-round-18-of-la-ligaRenato Gonçalves2015-01-11T11:00:01+01:002015-01-11T11:00:01+01:00Barcelona vs Atlético Madrid: Predict The Score
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<p>A chance for you to predict the score of Barcelona's huge La Liga clash with Atlético Madrid</p> <p align="justify">Big one today! It's <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> vs <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.intothecalderon.com/">Atlético Madrid</a> to find out who is really going after <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> for the La Liga title. Barça didn't beat Atleti at all last season, as five draws and a loss showed that defeating Diego Simeone's side is never an easy thing. Their matches have become low-scoring affairs, usually decided by little details.</p>
<p align="justify">If those details make Barça lose, it could mean the end of the line for <span>Luis Enrique</span>, as Barça's boss will reportedly get sacked if he fails to manage his players to a victory. Even if he does win, the chances of keeping his job are not as big as one might think.</p>
<p align="justify">Will Barça win this one? Join us and predict the score for the big game!</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/1/11/7526627/barcelona-vs-atletico-madrid-predict-the-scoreRenato Gonçalves2015-01-11T09:00:03+01:002015-01-11T09:00:03+01:00Barcelona vs Atlético Madrid: Live Stream, TV Info
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<p>A huge La Liga clash headlines football Sunday</p> <p align="justify">In the midst of an unprecedented crisis, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> will try to keep their La Liga title hopes alive when they host <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.intothecalderon.com/">Atlético Madrid</a> for a huge clash with championship implications. Also, a loss on Sunday could mean the end of the <span>Luis Enrique</span> era at Barça, as reports indicate that he will get sacked if he fails to manage his team into a victory.</p>
<p align="justify">Luckily, Enrique doesn't have any major injury concerns. Well, unless you don't consider Xavi a major part of the team. The legendary Barça captain is not expected to play due to a right leg injury, and his leadership and talent will certainly be missed if he's indeed out of the game. But guys like Neymar, Messi and Suárez are all ready to go.</p>
<p align="justify">Atlético come to this one with huge expectations, and they want to cap off a fantastic week with a victory. They beat <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> last Wednesday in a great Copa del Rey game, and Diego Simeone's side has proved last season that stopping Barcelona is not a difficult thing to do.</p>
<p align="justify">It will be a great one. It cannot be missed.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Match Date/Time: </b>Sunday, January 10th, 9 p.m. local, 3 p.m. ET</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Venue: </b>Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain</p>
<p align="justify"><b>TV: </b>beIN Sports (U.S. - English), beIN Sports en Espanõl (U.S. - Spanish), beIN Sports (Canada), Canal+ 1 HD, Canal+ Yomvi (Spain), Star Sports HD 2 Asia (India)</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Online: </b>beIN Sports CONNECT (U.S. & Canada)</p>
<p align="justify">(<a target="_blank" href="http://www.livesoccertv.com/match/1259037/barcelona-vs-atletico-madrid/">Listings via LiveSoccerTV</a>)</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/1/11/7526579/barcelona-atletico-madrid-2015-la-liga-time-tv-schedule-online-streamingRenato Gonçalves2015-01-11T02:21:22+01:002015-01-11T02:21:22+01:00La Liga: Barça vs Atlético Madrid: Match Preview
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<p>A preview of Barcelona's all-important clash with Atlético Madrid, with a lot on the line for the club, the players and coach Luis Enrique</p> <p align="justify">After a busy week (to say the least) for Barcelona behind the scenes, it's time for the team to respond on the pitch in a big game: Barça welcome <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.intothecalderon.com/">Atlético Madrid</a> to Camp Nou for a decisive match for both teams in terms of chasing <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> for the La Liga title. More importantly, there's a lot on the line for Barça, and especially for coach <span>Luis Enrique</span>, whose future as the Blaugrana manager depends deeply on Sunday's result.</p>
<p align="justify">The 1-0 loss at the Anoeta triggered an unexpected and destructive crisis, with news breaking that <span>Lionel Messi</span> and Lucho couldn't stand each other, followed by president Josep Maria Bartomeu terminating the contract of Andoni Zubizarreta, the club's sporting director. A few hours later, <span>Carles Puyol</span> resigned as Zubi's assistant after only four months at the job. The very next day, Bartomeu announced that elections will be held at the end of this season to decide who will be the new president, which, according to Bartomeu himself, will serve as "a relief for the tension that currently surrounds the club".</p>
<p align="justify">The following morning, one more surprise: Barça Blaugranes learned that Bartomeu is set to sack manager Luis Enrique if the boss fails to win the game against Atlético; in fact, even a non-convincing win will be enough to terminate Lucho's contract. For Enrique, the only way to change the president's mind would be to get a very impressive victory that will prove that he is ready to lead this angry locker room into championships, while solving all the personal issues and getting his players focused on winning trophies.</p>
<p align="justify">It is a fact: things are not going well for Barcelona. The strong 5-0 Copa del Rey win didn't exactly dissipate all the black smoke surrounding Camp Nou, but it certainly served as a bit of a relief for the team, as well as the fans. Beating Atléti, however, would definitely end the crisis, at least for now, and also provide Enrique with a strong argument to keep his job.</p>
<p align="justify">But getting that crisis-ending win will not be easy. In addition to being a disappointing season for the Blaugrana, last year's campaign proved that Atlético are an established title contender. They didn't lose to Barça all season, and they won the La Liga trophy at the Camp Nou, with a historical defensive effort and a set piece game that works to perfection against the Catalans since forever.</p>
<p align="justify">Will Barcelona be able to show strength, overcome the adversities and show the world that they're still great?</p>
<h5>TEAM NEWS</h5>
<p align="justify"><b>BARCELONA</b></p>
<p align="justify">Luis Enrique has yet to release the squad list, as he usually waits for matchday to reveal the eighteen players chosen to be in uniform for the match. As soon as he does it, Barça Blaugranes has you covered! Until Enrique gives us the team news, we're going to do an exercise of prediction. But considering that this is a big game, we can do a pretty accurate assumption of Lucho's tactical and personnel choices for the match.</p>
<p align="justify">Below the posts, <span>Claudio Bravo</span> is certain to start. As inconsistent as the team has been, Bravo is a positive. Every time Barça fans campaign for ter Stegen to become Barça's number one goalie, the Chile international comes through with a fantastic goal-stopping performance after another. Bravo is by far the best statistical goalkeeper of the Spanish League, as he has allowed only eight goals in seventeen matches. Given Barça's defensive track record, that's pretty impressive. Against Atlético's unstoppable set piece game, Bravo will need to have another sensational performance if Barça are going to win.</p>
<p align="justify">In front of Claudio, lies a fundamental part of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona's</a> chances to win on Sunday. The defense will need to play at a high level to stop Atléti's effective offense. <span>Dani Alves</span> is most likely to start as the right-back, and the Brazilian will be a major cause of concern against strong offensive players like Koke, Arda Turan and Guilherme Siqueira, all of which will attack Alves. Dani's season as a defender has been terrible, and he'll need to pick it up or he will become the weak link of the defense and an easy target for Atleti.</p>
<p align="justify">The pair of center-backs is also ultra-important to Barça's chances tomorrow. Because of the destructive aerial threat of the <i>Colchoneros</i>, there needs to be a tall center-back pairing. Thankfully, Gerard Piqué and Jérémy Mathieu are active, healthy and ready to go. Mathieu's aerial skills will be fundamental on this one, and Piqué has also shown tremendous improvement in that area in the last few games.</p>
<p align="justify"><span>Jordi Alba</span> is expected to start on the left side, and he will be one of the main factors on Sunday night. He has become a fundamental part of the offense, and it seems like every trip he makes to the opposing box results in a clear chance and/or a goal. Barça will need him to create havoc alongside Neymar on that side when they have the ball; on defense, Alba will also need to play a strong game because of the offensive threats of Juanfran's crosses, Koke's high IQ and <span>Antoine Griezmann's</span> quickness and intelligence. Alba is such a good player that he is able to handle them while still being important on the other side of the ball.</p>
<p align="justify">It is a fact that Barça's defense is a liability, so the key on this one is to limit Atleti's offensive trips, and press the <i>Colchoneros</i> in their own half; even if Barcelona fail to score, the success on limiting the chances of players like Mario Mandzukic, Griezmann and Turan will be a huge factor in tomorrow's match.</p>
<p align="justify">At pivote, <span>Sergio Busquets</span> is almost a sure bet to start. After being rested in the midweek CdR win, Busi is ready to go and he is one more key to the game. Because Atleti's midfielders are such good defenders and they will put pressure on the creative minds ahead of Sergio, it will be Busi's responsability to conduct the offense a lot of times. Is he up to the task?</p>
<p align="justify">Perhaps it would be helpful to have a better Ivan Rakitic to give him help. With the likely absence of Xavi Hernández due to injury, Rakitic will probably get another chance to start. He was Barça's worst performer against Elche in the eyes of many, and he has been declining lately after a shining start to the season, with the repeated passing mistakes on Thursday being his lowlight so far. On Sunday, he has to perform better, and his outside shooting could become a factor if Barça aren't able to penetrate Atleti's compact defense. Can we please get a Rocketic goal?</p>
<p align="justify">The last part of the midfield is Andrés Iniesta. He will most likely be the most creative player on the pitch, and he is known to rise on big games and have a spectacular showing. Barça certainly need that on Sunday. He'll have a hard time getting open with the constant presence of Gabi, Tiago and Koke, but he is intelligent enough to come up with a magical moment tomorrow.</p>
<p align="justify">Finally, unless Lucho is absolutely out of his mind, the trio of Messi, Neymar and Luis Suárez will headline the lineup, and the latter will be the third key component of the team. Since Diego Simeone took over and figured out a way to stop Lionel Messi, Barcelona has never had a strong center-forward who can hang with Atleti's tough defenders and serve as a decoy to give Messi some space. Now, Suárez is that guy. Neymar has been Barça's best player against Atlético, and his quickness and elusiveness give us the feeling that he is going to be okay and will probably do something great. But Suárez really needs to come up big on Sunday. His presence alone will give the <i>Colchoneros</i> cause for pause, so they can't chase Messi around all night long. If they do, Luisito won't need much chances to score. Hopefully, he is the guy who figures out how to solve the puzzle that is Simeone's scheme.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>ATLÉTICO DE MADRID</b></p>
<p align="justify">Despite losing three key components of their team, mainly their premier striker, Diego Costa, Atléti haven't lost a step so far. Their start to the season has been strong, and the team's calling card is still one of the best defenses in football. Juanfran and Diego Godín have been amazing this season. Guilherme Siqueira isn't as good as Filipe Luís, but he's a capable full-back who can also defend.</p>
<p align="justify">João Miranda got hurt, and many thought the team would suffer with the loss of such a good center-back, but José Giménez has been a very reliable replacement, and Atlético's defense has been as great as always. But Miranda is back from injury, and he could be a surprise return after missing one month of action due to a hamstring issue. Don't be shocked if he cracks the starting lineup. As good as Giménez has been, he's not Miranda, and the Brazilian shut down Barça almost by himself last season.</p>
<p align="justify">Atléti's midfield is an underrated group of hard-working, talented lads. Gabi and Tiago provide strong defense at the pivot, while initiating the offense with accurate passing and well-timed runs to the offensive box. Arda Turan and Koke are rarely mentioned among the best midfielders in the world, but they are (at least in my opinion anyways). They can defend and attack with the same efficiency. Arda Turan's finishing is off the charts, and Koke's crosses are beautiftul.</p>
<p align="justify">In front of them, the most dangerous players on the team. Antoine Griezmann has been a phenomenal addition to the squad, as he has fit in perfectly into the style of Simeone football. He has provided his team with what David Villa failed to do last season, which is a supporting player for the main striker who has the necessary quickness to drift into open space when the main striker gets all the attention. Villa was more of a second striker, and the team lacked width. With Griezmann, the offense becomes much more unpredictable, fast, and dangerous. Great player.</p>
<p align="justify">Mario Mandzukic is the perfect man to replace Diego Costa. He can fight like Costa, he can grind like Costa, and he can finish like Costa, with his feet or his head. Being snubbed at Bayern Munich was actually a good think for the Croatian, who went to Spain and became the focal point of Atleti's offense. His 14 goals in 20 appearances this season prove that his killer instinct is still there, and he doesn't need a lot of chances to find the net.</p>
<p align="justify">And don't forget about <span>Fernando Torres</span>, who is back home and made his debut against Real Madrid last Wednesday. He is known to be a villain whenever he goes to Camp Nou, and tomorrow can be the perfect game for <i>El Niño </i>to show that he can still be a nightmare for the Blaugrana.</p>
<p align="justify">Atlético are a very complete, strong and resilient side, and things will be hard for Barça. As we've seen last season, a 1-0 win will be a blowout.</p>
<h5 align="justify"><b>FORM GUIDE</b></h5>
<p align="justify">Barcelona: WDWWLW</p>
<p align="justify">Atlético Madrid: DLDWWW</p>
<h5 align="justify"><b>LAST MEETING</b></h5>
<p align="justify">FC Barcelona 1-1 Atlético Madrid - 17th May 2014 - La Liga</p>
<p align="justify">A golazo from former Blaugrana Alexis Sánchez seemed to have secured the Spanish League title for the Blaugrana at the end of the first half, but Diego Godín scored the equalizer for the <i>Colchoneros</i> and gave Atlético the La Liga title last season.</p>
<h5 align="justify"><b>LIKELY LINE-UPS</b></h5>
<p align="justify">Barcelona (4-3-3): Bravo; Alves, Piqué, Mathieu, Alba; Busquets, Rakitic, Iniesta; Messi, Suárez, Neymar</p>
<p align="justify">Atlético Madrid (4-4-2): Moyà; Juanfran, Giménez, Godín, Siqueira; Gabi, Tiago, Koke, Arda Turan; Griezmann, Mandzukic</p>
<h5 align="justify"><b>MATCH PREDICTION</b></h5>
<p align="justify">Boy, is this a hard one to predict. It will be really tough, but I believe Barça will rise to the occasion and grind this one out. I'm going for a late 2-1 win.</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/1/11/7526225/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-atletico-de-madrid-match-previewRenato Gonçalves