Barca Blaugranes - La Liga: Atletico Madrid vs FC Barcelona: Full Match Coverage#GraciesTitohttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47187/barca-fave.png2015-05-22T18:23:59+02:00http://www.barcablaugranes.com/rss/stream/83809722015-05-22T18:23:59+02:002015-05-22T18:23:59+02:00Atletico Madrid 0-1 Barcelona: Player Ratings
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<p>A detailed, player-by-player breakdown of Barcelona's La Liga title-clinching win against Atletico.</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>8.9</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>46</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>34</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>85</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>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Clearances</span>: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span></b></i></span>says:</b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i> 8.0</i></b></span>
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<p>Another game, another clean sheet - and again Bravo made it look easy. His biggest test came early, in the 8th minute, when José María Giménez put a well-aimed header on goal, but Bravo made a brilliant save to keep the game scoreless. Bravo would go on to make another two saves, but both were much simpler that the previously mentioned one. Throughout the game Bravo was a calming presence at the back for Barcelona, a task he helped accomplish with a good passing day.</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;">8.3</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>110</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Passes: <b>86</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"><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">Turnovers</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>1/1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Clearances</span></span></span>: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<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"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>4</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Interceptions</span>: <b>1</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span></b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
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<p>Alves had a mostly strong game on the right side for Barcelona, making plenty of strong plays, but again there were plays mixed in between that led to easy turnovers that could’ve resulted in trouble had the heart of the Barcelona defense not been on its game. By some margin Alves had the most touches of the ball, meaning he was very involved in play build up, even creating two chances for his teammates. Alves also came very close to scoring the opener just before halftime, but his long range shot was tipped over the bar by Jan Oblak.</p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Gerard Pique<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>8.2</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>76</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>67</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>91</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Interceptions: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>5</b></span>
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<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"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>1</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span></b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.0</i></b></span>
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<p>More often than not the center-back pairing of Pique and Mascherano performed very well together this season, this game was no different. Normally Antoine Griezmann is a constant threat to score, but he was hardly seen in this one as he simply couldn’t get any space to operate next to Pique. But Pique didn’t only bring value in defense, often he tried to create something in attack, but he was unable to find the back of the net.</p>
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<span>Javier Mascherano</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>8.2</i></td>
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<div class="dots">
<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>91</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>82</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>85</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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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Interceptions: <b>0</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: <b>5</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<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"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>2</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Fouls</span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span></b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.5</i></b></span>
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<p>After a sub-par game against Bayern Munich, Mascherano set things straight against Atletico with a defensive masterclass. Tasked with covering Fernando Torres, something Diego Simeone continuously tried to exploit with high balls into his general area, Mascherano didn’t give the Spaniard an inch. Positionally El Jefecito was excellent, always in the perfect spot to make the play, may it be with his feet or his head, but that’s just another day in the office for Mascherano.</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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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>79</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>68</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>62</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">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>0/0</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>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Key Passes</span></span>: </span><b><span class="statwords">0</span></b>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Turnovers</span></span>: <b>3</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"><i><b>7.0</b></i></span>
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<p>Alba’s game wasn’t on a level as high we’ve expected it to be after he picked up a thigh injury about a month ago, but against Atletico the speedy full-back delivered once again. He played against Arda Turan, whose energy and technique usually create plenty of problems in every game, but Alba shut him down. Because of his defensive responsibilities Alba wasn’t very active in attack, but he still made sure he was always available for a pass to create width.</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: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>80</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>73</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>88</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>1/0</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">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<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">Turnovers</span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won</span></span></span>: </span><b><span class="statwords">3</span></b>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span></span>: <b>4</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam </b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><i><b>7.0</b></i></span>
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<p>With the pace of Torres up front, Busquets had to be constantly aware of any Atlético counterattacks. He performed this role well by monitoring the back four and preventing any real Atlético chances from developing. He was also needed in midfield to break down the compact team ahead of him, his passing really helped in this situation as he completed the fourth highest number of passes for his team which meant Barça could enjoy midfield superiority.</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>8.1</i></td>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>81</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: </span><span class="statwords"><b>57</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>90</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>0/0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Turnovers:</span><span class="statwords"><b> 4</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"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><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></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Tackles</span>: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: 6.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<p>A bit of a quiet game for Iniesta in which he played a more of a controlling role then an attacking one. His patrolling of the midfield allowed the front three more freedom as they didn’t have to worry about leaving gaps behind them. He made three tackles and had a pass success rate of 89.5% helping to maintain status quo in the midfield.</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>8.3</i></td>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>86</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>97</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>83</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>94</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>0</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>/0</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span>: <b>0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </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"><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">Successful Dribbles</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Clearances</span></span></span></span></span>: <b>4</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>The Croatian midfielder was an offensive presence and was often floating in and around the Atlético area looking for a chance to fall his way. He never managed a shot himself but he did deliver some good crosses. Rakitic also did well defensively, most importantly in the first half when it was his marking at a corner that denied Atlético from opening the scoring. In terms of his passing he was also very good, making 83 passes with a success rate of 94%.</p>
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<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;"><i>7.9</i></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>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>47</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>39</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>84</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>2/0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: <b>1</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"><span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Tackles</span></span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Pedro had to fill the big shoes of Luis Suarez in this one and he did a very good job - it was arguably the biggest impact Pedro's has had in the year 2015. While the start of the game went by quietly for the Canary Islander, Pedro's influence grew as the game went on and reached the highest point when he played a lovely one-two with Messi in the play that resulted in the only goal of the game.</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;">
<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi" class="sbn-auto-link">Lionel Messi</a><br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">9.4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<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: <b>77</b></span><span class="statwords"><b></b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>56</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>7/4</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>8</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: <b>8</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: 9.0</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p>With Suarez out of the game as a precaution Messi would have to take on even more responsibilities, and he came out with flying colors, scoring the title-clinching goal. Consistently the Argentine was the most dangerous player on the pitch and a combination of excellent movement, effortless dribbling, accurate passing and a decent day at finishing off chances proved to be too much for Atletico to handle.</p>
<br>
</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;">8.3</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: <b>90</b></span></div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>70</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>51</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>84</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>2/0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Tackles:</span></span><span class="statwords"> <b>4</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>Bostjan </b></i></span>says: 6.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">While Neymar wasn't quite the turnover machine as he was in past games, when he easily eclipsed 5 turnovers per match, he also wasn't as decisive in attack. His movement was lacking and he didn't combine as well with Pedro as he does with Suarez. But Neymar's biggest sin of the game came midway through the second half when he missed a sitter that would've meant for a much calmer end to the title deciding game.</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;">Jeremy Mathieu<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.6</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>11</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>10</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>6</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>50</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><span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron </b></i></span>says: N/A</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<span> </span>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p>Luis Enrique's three substitutions were perfect in every sense, helping shore up Barcelona's tiring midfield and backline, as well as waste precious seconds that Atletico could have used to build attacks. However, it does make for some dull ratings -- Mathieu only featured for 10 minutes and barely saw a touch of the ball in that time. As such, it would be unfair to give him a full rating.</p>
</div>
</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;">Xavi<br>
</td>
<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>
</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>9</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>10</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>10</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"><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"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Turnovers</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron </b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>N/A</b></i></span></b></i></span>
</div>
</div>
<span> </span>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p>Well, now it's official -- this really is Xavi's goodbye tour, and one last time for old time's sake, he made a final appearance in Madrid, replacing Iniesta to a great reception from the Atletico fans. Football in Catalunya won't be the same without him, but in this instance he saw so little of the ball that a full rating is not required.</p>
</div>
</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>7.7</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>4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>5</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>4</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>75</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"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Blocked Shots</span></span></span></span></span></span></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>Arron says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>N/A</b></i></span></b></i></span>
</div>
</div>
<span> </span>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p>And if Mathieu and Xavi don't deserve a full rating, then Rafinha certainly doesn't for his very brief cameo.</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></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>732</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>88</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>14/5</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>15</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Aerial Battles Won: <b>33</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won/Committed: <b>23/7</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron </b></i></span>says: 9.0</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">It seems obvious to say it given how the victory gifted us the title, but in more ways than one, this was the performance of a championship winning team. The pressure was on, and the schedule had been unkind to the Blaugrana in recent weeks. We were facing a tough team, the reigning champions no less, in their own backyard at one of the toughest venues in Spanish football. We were without our superstar summer signing, Luis Suarez, and yet somehow, someway we dug down deep and not only won the match, but actually dominated proceedings. A worthy way to secure the crown, that much is true.</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>8.9</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>Arron </b></i></span>says: 10.0</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Perfection. We understand that Luis Suarez was fit and ready to be put back into the starting line-up and Luis Enrique could have taken that risk. However, he stuck to his guns and put his faith in Pedro, who rewarded him with a strong, all-action display at centre-forward. The rest of the selection was impeccable as well, while his substitutions couldn't have come at a better time to help us close out the game and eek closer to the final whistle. Quite simply superb.</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>81%</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: Messi</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p>Fittingly, it was the player that led Barcelona all season long also led Barcelona to a win in Madrid and won the Man of the Match award for yet another time, convincingly if I may add. With a strong display in goal, Bravo finished in second place (8%), while Rakitić edged out Neymar and Alves for third place with 3%.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/5/22/8637139/la-liga-atletico-madrid-0-1-fc-barcelona-player-ratingsBostjan CernensekSam CooperArron Duckling2015-05-17T21:02:47+02:002015-05-17T21:02:47+02:00La Liga: Barça 1-0 Atleti: Match Review
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/mIC0Y1Eluc0v8tfJ8u90vlZM4Ys=/0x202:2130x1622/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46348612/GettyImages-473767074.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Denis Doyle/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A recap of Barcelona's 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid, as a goal from Lionel Messi crowned the Blaugrana 2014/15 La Liga champions with a week to spare</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">It’s official! FC <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> are the 2014/2015 La Liga champions and they have secured glory in poetic fashion tonight, travelling to the home of the reigning champions, Atletico Madrid and emerging victorious at the Vicente Calderon a year to the day after Atleti secured the 2013/14 crown with a draw at the Camp Nou.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Similar to last year it was a tight match between two evenly-matched sides, but when push came to shove this year, it was Barça’s quality that shone through. <span>Lionel Messi</span> got the fateful goal to win the match with 65 minutes on the clock and while Atleti forced a few good saves from <span>Claudio Bravo</span>, they never really looked like spoiling Barça’s party tonight.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">In Catalunya, the celebrations will begin tonight as Culés converse down Las Ramblas to toast La Liga success, but for FC Barcelona, this is just the beginning. Three more matches remain this season, with two trophies left to play for.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>Triplete? </i></p>
<table class="MsoNormalTable" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-size: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial;">
<tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; height: 8.85pt;">
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; height: 8.85pt;"></td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; height: 8.85pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Atletico Madrid</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; height: 8.85pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Barcelona</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Possession</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>23%</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>77%</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Total Shots</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>10</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>15</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Shots on Target</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>3</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>5</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Corners</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>6</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>5</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Fouls</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>23</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>7</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Offsides</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>1</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>1</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Yellow Cards</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>5</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>3</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>Red Cards</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>0</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify;"><b>0</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"></td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><br></td>
<td width="205" valign="top" style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><br></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The big news headed into the match was that Luis Suarez, despite travelling with the rest of the squad had not received the medical green light, and as such, was not going to be named in the starting line-up. In fact, he wasn’t even on the bench and as a result, Pedro accompanied Neymar and Lionel Messi in attack, with Munir el Haddadi named as our offensive option on the bench. Claudio Bravo aside, that was our only change from the midweek loss to Bayern Munich. Would this strong selection be enough to help us claim the victory we needed to be crowned champions, or would Atletico Madrid spoil the party?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align: center;">***</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">A fifth La Liga title in seven seasons was up for grabs, and FC Barcelona were anxious to get the job done as soon as possible. Just one win from their remaining two matches would be enough, but allowing it go down to the wire would cause unnecessary pressure – so a win behind enemy lines at the Vicente Calderon was the goal. Lionel Messi’s return to playing as a "false nine" was perhaps the most interesting subplot to this match; would it hurt or hinder the Blaugrana? Culés were eager to find out.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">It had been a warm day in the Spanish capital, with temperatures still around the 85-90 degree mark by kick-off, although mercifully a good portion of the playing surface at the Calderon was in the shade. Playing in their luminous yellow change jerseys, the visitors were easy to spot, although in the early stages at least they were having difficulties displaying both their usual playing style and the reasons why they were just a win away from the title.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">In truth, Barça were being made to look a little ordinary at the hands of Diego Simeone’s side who tried to take advantage of their early pressure and claim the opening goal of the match.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Twice in quick succession, Atleti very nearly succeeded in their quest; the first instance came in the seventh minute when Koke’s inswinging corner found Jose Gimenez unmarked at the near post for an effort at goal. The talented Uruguayan defender didn’t make good contact with the ball, inadvertently flicking it towards goal with his back – but irrespective of whether he meant it or not, the contact was enough to deflect the ball goalwards and it took a sensational fingertip save from Claudio Bravo to keep it out.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Barça were on the ropes and the reigning champions could sense it; a through ball from <span>Fernando Torres</span> appeared to have created another excellent chance, this time for <span>Antoine Griezmann</span> but again Bravo was equal to the effort. Two stunning saves in the space of a few minutes for the Chilean shot-stopper, even if the second ultimately wasn’t required because of an offside flag, at least Bravo had started the match well.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Having faced the early pressure and emerged unscathed, Barça looked to mount some offense of their own in the next stage of the game and while they weren’t as threatening as Atleti, they were forcing Jan Oblak into action.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Lionel Messi, predictably, was the main suspect; four shots in the next ten minutes from the Argentine superstar, although not a single one ever looked in danger of breaking the deadlock. Pedro and Neymar also tried their luck in the same spell of pressure, yet the end result was the same and as a consequence, Atleti were relatively comfortable.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">However, the longer the half dragged on in these hot conditions, the more difficult Atleti were finding it to keep pace with the league leaders. <span>Dani Alves</span>, the timeless wonder on the right-flank, was perhaps the first Barça player to really cause some panic in the Atletico backline with his marauding run into the area where he appeared to be dragged down by Diego Godin and a big decision awaited the referee, Alberto Undiano Mallenco.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Straight away, he blew his whistle and Barcelona were expecting him to point to the spot; but alas, he did not and upon production of a yellow card, it seemed as though he had booked Dani Alves for simulation. There was confusion, debate and finally when a free-kick was awarded to the Blaugrana, it became apparent that it was Godin, not Alves, who had found himself in the book. Replays suggested that it was the right call, the initial contact was outside the area and a free-kick was indeed the correct decision.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The angle was tight, but Lionel Messi stepped up regardless and went for goal; his effort had pace and the spin on the ball would have made it very difficult to stop, but Jan Oblak, beaten though he was, saw his clean sheet remain intact thanks to some help from the frame of the goal.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Barça were growing in stature, opting for the patient approach as they searched for that elusive goal that could have wrapped up the title and on the stroke of half-time, they very nearly found that opener. Dani Alves again was involved, this time more directly as he went for goal from long-range. The Brazilian hasn’t got himself on the scoresheet yet this season, so it was quite an optimistic effort but his confidence very nearly paid dividends as his dipping effort forced a fine save from Oblak in the Atleti goal.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The two sides, for the most part, had been evenly matched in the first period and a goalless scoreline at half-time reflected that. With <a href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Real Madrid</a> also tied at RCD <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/espanyol" class="sbn-auto-link">Espanyol</a> though, Barça were on track to lift the title. So, would we be celebrating at full-time, or would our luck change for the worse in the second 45?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align: center;">***</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes, you need to take a step back and observe the bigger picture before you can truly see things for what they are – and in this case, taking a step back at the start of the second-half to watch the match develop revealed that we were basically witnessing a repeat of the first 45 minutes. Atleti started the sharper side, quicker, fitter, more focused and simply better. As a consequence, they created a couple of early chance once again as Griezmann curled an effort wide of the post before Godin uncharacteristically blazed a free header over the bar following a smart corner kick.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Then Torres followed it up with a shot on goal – their first of the period – but it was a straight-forward stop for Bravo as <i>El Niño </i>fired the strike into the goalkeeper’s grateful grasp. That was all in the space of the first ten minutes, but from the 55<sup>th</sup> minute onwards, Barça were in the ascendency again. And maybe they needed to be as well; news rippled around the Calderon as <span>Cristiano Ronaldo</span> broke the deadlock at the Power8 Stadium against RCD Espanyol.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i>¿Hay Liga?</i></p>
<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Nope. Not quite. Not if Lionel Messi could help it.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">And who else would it have been? Ronaldo getting the goal for Real almost confirmed it; Messi may have had a quiet game by his lofty standards but you knew, you just knew that he would have the last laugh.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Everything about the goal personified Messi and Barcelona’s season. The build-up was precise and measured; the final combination between Pedro and Lionel Messi was exemplary and of course, the finish was Messi was superb. Receiving the return pass from Pedro was the easy part; the difficult part was controlling it – and he did so in sublime fashion, rolling the ball forward and into his stride with the studs of his left boot, setting himself up for a shot on goal, delivered with surgical precision into the far corner of the net.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The title was on its way to Catalunya.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Now a goal behind, Diego Simeone decided it was time to go for broke. Mario Suarez was withdrawn in favour of a more offensive option, Raul Garcia and Atleti tried to turn the tide, swing the pendulum in their favour by building some pressure of their own. However, all they succeeded in doing was opening the game up for Barça to strike on the counter and really, it was on the counter that Barcelona should have ended the game after 71 minutes.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Ivan Rakitić was the driving force behind our surge towards goal, running direct at the heart of a depleted Atleti defense before passing on the ball and responsibility to Lionel Messi. It was the obvious, correct choice and Messi picked up the baton in predictably impressive fashion, dragging the Atleti backline further out of position with a purposeful run of his own. All the while, Neymar had been running alongside in support, biding his time, finding the space so that when Messi delivered the pass, he could supply the finish.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Messi did his part, teeing up the Brazilian with a selfless through ball and with a chance one-on-one against Jan Oblak, Neymar looked set to kill off the game and secure the title. Alas, Neymar couldn’t keep his body over the ball when he made contact and the chance went to waste as his shot ended up high in the stands behind the goal.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Cue another offensive change for Atletico, as Mario Mandzukic replaced Arda Turan as Simeone again flexed his tactical muscles in a bid to snatch a draw.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">In the meantime, goals were flying in at the Power8 Stadium back in Catalunya; first Cristian Stuani equalised after a mistake from <span>Keylor Navas</span>, but Marcelo and Cristiano Ronaldo struck back to restore normal service – not that it mattered. Barça were still on course for the title. Just minutes separated them from glory...from reclaiming what was rightfully theirs.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Jeremy Mathieu replaced <span>Jordi Alba</span>; Xavi made what’s likely to be his final appearance at the Calderon to a standing ovation from the crowd as he came on for Andrés Iniesta and Rafinha also made a cameo showing, handing Ivan Rakitić some rest for the final few minutes. Enrique was pulling out all the stops to disrupt the flow of the game, and eek out those final few moments.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">On the pitch, his side were getting the job done. Neymar won a free-kick in a dangerous position on the 89 minute mark; heck, as time played out, Barça probably seemed more likely to grab a second than Atleti getting an equaliser.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">In hindsight, success on the night never seemed in question. Taking a step back, and looking at the bigger picture...this side is destined for something more. For true greatness and nothing, but nothing can stand in their way.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">One down, two to go, but for now...</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><iframe width="960" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TjkHfoBlCnI?rel=0" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<p><iframe marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0" height="500" width="760" src="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1eO1fextIuKxYPngZfo1_NLUB30NtsyDZkKNd3rJ5Fds/viewform?embedded=true">Loading...</iframe></p>
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<thead>
<tr>
<th colspan="2">Roll Call Info</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="150">Total comments</td>
<td>748</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>Total commenters</td>
<td>68</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/1ONE1Y">1ONE1Y</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/A.E.%20I%C3%A7keru">A.E. Içkeru</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/A.J.Khan">A.J.Khan</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Abhiforbarca">Abhiforbarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Anders%20Thomassen">Anders Thomassen</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AngelCul1">AngelCul1</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AraibKarim">AraibKarim</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ayush%20Tiwari">Ayush Tiwari</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AzBlaug">AzBlaug</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BDBarca">BDBarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcaBarca">BarcaBarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcelonaCobayo1998">BarcelonaCobayo1998</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bar%C3%A7a%20Cul%C3%A9%20DKM">Barça Culé DKM</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Cacho%20Cashman">Cacho Cashman</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Catalan_Blood">Catalan_Blood</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/CriRo7">CriRo7</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Delano%20Heerkens">Delano Heerkens</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DerkSensei">DerkSensei</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DudeBV">DudeBV</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/KiwiBarca">KiwiBarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Lapulga">Lapulga</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Leo20">Leo20</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Lio10">Lio10</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/LocoZZZ">LocoZZZ</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/LotusV3">LotusV3</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/MMcCoy11_FCB">MMcCoy11_FCB</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/NamesTroyResideInTheDMV">NamesTroyResideInTheDMV</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Navz">Navz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/NoImagination90">NoImagination90</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/R19">R19</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Rajesh1101s">Rajesh1101s</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Renato%20Goncalves">Renato Goncalves</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Richzorz">Richzorz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Romesh%20Srivastava">Romesh Srivastava</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ruy%20Diaz">Ruy Diaz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Som-i-Serem">Som-i-Serem</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Steven%20Cordero">Steven Cordero</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/StoichkovTheDagger">StoichkovTheDagger</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Swn.Cul%C3%A9">Swn.Culé</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Willis1984">Willis1984</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Yuro_Doosh">Yuro_Doosh</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Z%20Ahmad">Z Ahmad</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ade%20fox">ade fox</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/akash%20verma">akash verma</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ammirza">ammirza</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/avyator">avyator</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/barca4life1273">barca4life1273</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/craig00000">craig00000</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/cule-since-1992">cule-since-1992</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/feeya7">feeya7</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/giveittomessi">giveittomessi</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/godnkls">godnkls</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/khanhung.tran">khanhung.tran</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/luck-ycoltsfan19">luck-ycoltsfan19</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/messism">messism</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/michael.olivier">michael.olivier</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/milesbarca">milesbarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/navjot.kasukurthy">navjot.kasukurthy</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/nolet">nolet</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/robyn_bird96">robyn_bird96</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/sachinsa">sachinsa</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/semperty">semperty</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/une%20see">une see</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/waseem10">waseem10</a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>Story URLs</td>
<td>
<div><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/5/17/8617497/la-liga-atletico-madrid-vs-fc-barcelona-live-game-thread?_ga=1.72655253.708377781.1371816629">http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/5/17/8617497/la-liga-atletico-madrid-vs-fc-barcelona-live-game-thread?_ga=1.72655253.708377781.1371816629</a></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="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/Delano%20Heerkens">Delano Heerkens</a></td>
<td>84</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcaBarca">BarcaBarca</a></td>
<td>70</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Som-i-Serem">Som-i-Serem</a></td>
<td>57</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Swn.Cul%C3%A9">Swn.Culé</a></td>
<td>56</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Anders%20Thomassen">Anders Thomassen</a></td>
<td>43</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>6</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BDBarca">BDBarca</a></td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AngelCul1">AngelCul1</a></td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>8</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/KiwiBarca">KiwiBarca</a></td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Navz">Navz</a></td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>10</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/craig00000">craig00000</a></td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/NoImagination90">NoImagination90</a></td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>12</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ruy%20Diaz">Ruy Diaz</a></td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DerkSensei">DerkSensei</a></td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>14</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Catalan_Blood">Catalan_Blood</a></td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DudeBV">DudeBV</a></td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>16</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Rajesh1101s">Rajesh1101s</a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bar%C3%A7a%20Cul%C3%A9%20DKM">Barça Culé DKM</a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/uday%20kakoti">uday kakoti</a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/akash%20verma">akash verma</a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/shubham2806">shubham2806</a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/godnkls">godnkls</a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcelonaCobayo1998">BarcelonaCobayo1998</a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Abhiforbarca">Abhiforbarca</a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/avyator">avyator</a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Romesh%20Srivastava">Romesh Srivastava</a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/giveittomessi">giveittomessi</a></td>
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<td>28</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/une%20see">une see</a></td>
<td>5</td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AraibKarim">AraibKarim</a></td>
<td>5</td>
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<tr class="alt">
<td>30</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/barca4life1273">barca4life1273</a></td>
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<td>31</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/NamesTroyResideInTheDMV">NamesTroyResideInTheDMV</a></td>
<td>5</td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Lapulga">Lapulga</a></td>
<td>4</td>
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<td>33</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/feeya7">feeya7</a></td>
<td>4</td>
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<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/navjot.kasukurthy">navjot.kasukurthy</a></td>
<td>4</td>
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<td>35</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/A.E.%20I%C3%A7keru">A.E. Içkeru</a></td>
<td>4</td>
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<td>36</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/cule-since-1992">cule-since-1992</a></td>
<td>4</td>
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<td>37</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/luck-ycoltsfan19">luck-ycoltsfan19</a></td>
<td>4</td>
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<td>38</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ammirza">ammirza</a></td>
<td>3</td>
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<td>39</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Steven%20Cordero">Steven Cordero</a></td>
<td>3</td>
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<td>40</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Yuro_Doosh">Yuro_Doosh</a></td>
<td>3</td>
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<td>41</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Cacho%20Cashman">Cacho Cashman</a></td>
<td>3</td>
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<tr class="alt">
<td>42</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/LotusV3">LotusV3</a></td>
<td>3</td>
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<td>43</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/R19">R19</a></td>
<td>2</td>
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<td>44</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Lio10">Lio10</a></td>
<td>2</td>
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<td>45</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/nolet">nolet</a></td>
<td>2</td>
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<tr class="alt">
<td>46</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/0nk0">0nk0</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>47</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/1ONE1Y">1ONE1Y</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>48</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AzBlaug">AzBlaug</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>49</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/michael.olivier">michael.olivier</a></td>
<td>2</td>
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<tr class="alt">
<td>50</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/waseem10">waseem10</a></td>
<td>2</td>
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<td>51</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Leo20">Leo20</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>52</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/MMcCoy11_FCB">MMcCoy11_FCB</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
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<td>53</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Richzorz">Richzorz</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>54</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/A.J.Khan">A.J.Khan</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<tr>
<td>55</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/CriRo7">CriRo7</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>56</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ayush%20Tiwari">Ayush Tiwari</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>57</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/milesbarca">milesbarca</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<tr class="alt">
<td>58</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ade%20fox">ade fox</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<td>59</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/robyn_bird96">robyn_bird96</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<td>60</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/StoichkovTheDagger">StoichkovTheDagger</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<td>61</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/LocoZZZ">LocoZZZ</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<td>62</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/semperty">semperty</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<td>63</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/khanhung.tran">khanhung.tran</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<tr class="alt">
<td>64</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Renato%20Goncalves">Renato Goncalves</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<td>65</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/messism">messism</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<td>66</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Z%20Ahmad">Z Ahmad</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<td>67</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/sachinsa">sachinsa</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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<td>68</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Willis1984">Willis1984</a></td>
<td>1</td>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/5/17/8617937/la-liga-atletico-madrid-0-1-fc-barcelona-match-reviewArron Duckling2015-05-17T18:05:24+02:002015-05-17T18:05:24+02:00La Liga: Atleti-Barça: Live Game Thread
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Yy6XT-9MuS6bBAEuBhDKHpo_Zc4=/180x0:2812x1755/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46348042/GettyImages-473732736.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Denis Doyle/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Live game thread for the La Liga match between Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid</p> <div style="text-align: center;">La Liga: Jornada 36</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Vicente Calderón, Madrid</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Kickoff: Sunday 17 May 2015, 19:00 CET</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco</div>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Line-ups:</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.intothecalderon.com/">Atlético Madrid</a> (4-4-2): 13. Jan Oblak; 20. Juanfran, 2. Diego Godín, 24. José Giménez, 3. Guilherme Siqueira | 4. Mario Suárez, 14. Gabi, 10. Arda Turan, 6. Koke | 7. <span>Antoine Griezmann</span>, 19. <span>Fernando Torres</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Substitutes: TBD</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Coach: Diego Simeone</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">******</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> (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 | 7. Pedro Rodríguez, 10. <span>Lionel Messi</span>, 11. Neymar Jr.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Substitutes: 1. Marc-André ter Stegen, 24. Jérémy Mathieu, 21. Adriano Correia, 6. Xavi Hernández, 20. <span>Sergi Roberto</span>, 12. Rafinha Alcântara, 31. Munir El-Haddadi</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Coach: <span>Luis Enrique</span></p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/5/17/8617497/la-liga-atletico-madrid-vs-fc-barcelona-live-game-threadRenato Gonçalves2015-05-17T14:03:44+02:002015-05-17T14:03:44+02:00Barça Squad Named for 'La Liga Final' vs Atlético
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fUXsoxBUnuEo47V5HWl4jeGKwwo=/0x0:4280x2853/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46347510/GettyImages-466693948.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Michael Regan/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Everybody is going to Madrid!</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">It's time! <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> can win the La Liga championship today if they win the visit to Vicente Calderón against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.intothecalderon.com/">Atlético Madrid</a>, and coach <span>Luis Enrique</span> decided to take everyone with him for a potential title party in the Spanish capital.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">All 23 first team players, plus two Barça B youngsters, have been called up to form the 25-man squad that made the trip with the coach and his staff. The big news, of course, is the presence of Luis Suárez. The Uruguayan suffered a mild hamstring strain against Bayern Munich five days ago, and his status is <i>still</i> up in the air since there's no confirmation from the club that he is medically cleared to play today. But, after working out normally with the group on Saturday's training session, Luisito is expected to start against Diego Simeone's squad.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Along with Suárez, this is the squad named by Lucho for the game:</p>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Goalkeepers:</b> 1. Marc-André ter Stegen, 13. <span>Claudio Bravo</span>, 25. Jordi Masip</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Defenders: </b>2. Martín Montoya, 3. Gerard Piqué, 14. <span>Javier Mascherano</span>, 15. <span>Marc Bartra</span>, 16. Douglas Pereira, 18. <span>Jordi Alba</span>, 21. Adriano Correia, 22. <span>Dani Alves</span>, 23. <span>Thomas Vermaelen</span>, 24. Jérémy Mathieu</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Midfielders: </b>4. Ivan Rakitic, 5. <span>Sergio Busquets</span>, 6. Xavi Hernández, 8. Andrés Iniesta, 12. Rafinha Alcântara, 20. <span>Sergi Roberto</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Forwards: </b>7. Pedro Rodríguez, 9. Luis Suárez, 10. <span>Lionel Messi</span>, 11. Neymar Jr., 29. Sandro Ramírez, 31. Munir El-Haddadi</p>
</blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Projected Starting Lineup (4-3-3):</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: center;">Bravo</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Alves-Piqué-Mathieu-Alba</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Rakitic-Busquets-Iniesta</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Messi-Suárez-Neymar</p>
</blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Projected substitutes and players cut:</b></p>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Bench: Stegen; Mascherano, Bartra, Adriano, Xavi, Rafinha, Pedro</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Players cut: Masip, Montoya, Douglas, Vermaelen, Roberto, Sandro, Munir</p>
</blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The match starts at 19:00 CET, and you can join us at game time to comment the action. Let's win La Liga again!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>VISCA EL BARÇA! </b></p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/5/17/8617027/la-liga-atletico-madrid-barcelona-2015-squad-listRenato Gonçalves2015-05-17T12:00:01+02:002015-05-17T12:00:01+02:00How to Watch: Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/n46W8Jme96tjALFz4kBZtgdCYWk=/0x105:2001x1439/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46347326/GettyImages-462427288.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Thanks to a decision from the Spanish courts to overrule the planned strike action that was set to threaten the final two matchdays in this year's La Liga season, plus the Copa del Rey final, FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> will have a chance to actually secure the title themselves tonight, provided that they can defeat the reigning champions in their own backyard. Atletico Madrid might not be in the title picture this season, but we all know of the quality they possess and the danger they can pose, particularly at the Vicente Calderon and tonight is unlikely to be an exception.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">After all, Atleti still haven't wrapped up third place in La Liga and will want to do so as soon as possible; the threat of entering next season's UEFA Champions League in the qualifying round is unlikely to appeal to Diego Simeone and his side and with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/valencia">Valencia</a> breathing down their necks, a slip tonight could leave them needing a result on the final day.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And would it really be the end of the world if we had to wait until next weekend to claim the title?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Lifting the trophy at the Camp Nou would be a fitting end to the campaign, even if it would make that match against Deportivo La Coruna that little bit more nerve-wracking. But then again, I've always been a little impatient: if the title is up for grabs tonight, let's not waste time; let's go for it right now. Plus, who isn't a fan of revenge?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Match Date/Time: </b>Sunday, May 17, 7 p.m. local time, 11 a.m. ET.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Venue: </b><i>Vicente Calderon</i>, Madrid, Spain</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>TV: </b>beIN Sports en Espanol (U.S. - Spanish), GOL T, Canal+ Liga/HD, Movistar TV Fútbol (Spain), Star Sports HD 4 Asia (India), Sky Sport 5 / HD (U.K.)</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Online: </b>beIN Sports Connect (U.S./Canada), fuboTV (U.S), Gol Stadium, C+ Liga Multi (Spain), SkyGo (U.K.)</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">(Listings via<a target="_blank" href="http://www.livesoccertv.com/match/1259179/barcelona-vs-valencia/"> LiveSoccerTV</a>)</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A quick note: you might have noticed fuboTV among the online stream listings. This is a very cool new site that provides a LEGAL, high-quality live streaming service that now includes beIN SPORTS. If you're not able to buy cable or you're not near your TV during Barcelona games, you can watch Barça online in HD at fuboTV for only $6.99 per month! <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641846&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fubo.tv%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.barcablaugranes.com%2F2015%2F5%2F17%2F8616937%2Fbarcelona-atletico-madrid-2015-la-liga-tv-schedule-live-online-streaming" target="_blank" data-ref-index="10" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Sign up</a> now!</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/5/17/8616937/barcelona-atletico-madrid-2015-la-liga-tv-schedule-live-online-streamingArron Duckling2015-05-17T11:05:30+02:002015-05-17T11:05:30+02:00La Liga: Barça vs Atleti: Predict the Score
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/8sLBZWM9WidewSlfguBhSuJu_F8=/0x61:4116x2805/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46347322/GettyImages-473065600.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Adam Pretty/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A chance to predict the score of tonight's La Liga clash between FC Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at the Vicente Calderon</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Can you say, <i>campeones? </i>FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> travel to the Spanish capital today looking to put the finishing touches on a fantastic domestic campaign by reclaiming the La Liga title at the first time of asking, at the home of the reigning champions no less. Like last season, FC Barcelona square off against Atletico Madrid knowing that a victory would see them crowned La Liga champions, although unlike last year, they will have another chance at glory even if they fail to win tonight.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And as such, there is a really positive atmosphere around the camp as the entire squad can almost taste a potential treble -- three wins from four matches will be enough in that respect, a far cry from the rather disappointing 2013/14 campaign. Heck, it's a far cry from January; the club seemed to be in crisis at that stage with presidential elections announced to try and alleviate some of the tension at the Camp Nou. The players seemed unhappy, but we came out of the other side of that episode stronger, more "together" than we had perhaps ever been.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Atletico Madrid had regularly proved to be a thorn in our sides last season; now, we were dominating them. Three wins in three matches against Simeone's side in January were as clear a sign as any: this FC Barcelona side meant business on all fronts. Every treble has to start somewhere; I say ours starts tonight.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Predict the score of tonight's La Liga clash between FC Barcelona and Atletico Madrid by commenting with your prediction below. Best of luck!</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/5/17/8616933/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-atletico-madrid-predict-the-scoreArron Duckling2015-05-16T20:11:45+02:002015-05-16T20:11:45+02:00La Liga; Barça vs Atleti: Match Preview
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/kuMbmDuCR0Yk9fErxHcQ-ZRO3kI=/0x97:2292x1625/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46345580/GettyImages-462425578.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Denis Doyle/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A preview of Barcelona's crucial La Liga fixture against Atletico Madrid at the Vicente Calderon</p> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> are just one win away from reclaiming the La Liga title, and they will be aiming to claim that victory tomorrow in poetic fashion against the reigning champions, Atletico Madrid. Of course, Culés will remember how the Blaugrana squared off against Atleti last season with the La Liga title on the line only for Diego Simeone’s side to escape the Camp Nou with a draw to be named as champions; now, a year to the day after that result, a win behind enemy lines for Barça would seal the deal.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">However, it goes without saying that a victory at the Calderon is far from being a foregone conclusion; FC Barcelona have won just one of their last four trips to Atleti, but <span>Luis Enrique</span> will be encouraged by our last visit – an enthralling 3-2 win in the Copa del Rey.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">With a narrow 1-0 lead from the first-leg, Barça were under pressure and immediately fell behind to a goal from Fernando Torres. The crowd was baying for Blaugrana blood, but we held firm and displayed a lot of character to equalise not once, but twice, courtesy of Neymar and own-goal from Miranda. And when Neymar provided us with a winner, it was a signal that our luck had turned. Last season, Atletico had stood between us and glory; now, we were starting a streak of our own against them.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Three matches, three victories – Gerardo Martino might not have had Diego Simeone’s number, but Luis Enrique sure has. Tactically, he has got it right every single time and Simeone has been powerless to stop him. Whether he’s tried to go toe-to-toe with our star-studded squad, park the bus, or try a mixture of the two, Barça and Enrique have emerged victorious.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">The secret to our success, typically, has been the quality of our frontline as <span>Lionel Messi</span>, Luis Suarez and especially Neymar have ran riot against the reigning champs; but with Suarez doubtful for tomorrow’s clash, Barça’s chances might have taken a hit. Certainly, the second-half of our clash with Bayern in midweek illustrated Suarez’ importance, but I suppose it is difficult to draw conclusions from a match that was already over.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Thankfully, we have a little more room for error this year as compared to last year; a draw, or even a loss wouldn’t be the end of the world. All we need is one win from our remaining two games and after last season, well, let’s say I’m willing to take the patient approach just so long as it still ends in glory.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>TEAM NEWS</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>BARCELONA</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Luis Suarez is injured, or maybe he isn’t; FC Barcelona have been keeping their cards close to their chest with the fitness of their Uruguayan striker. First, we’re told that he’s a doubt for tomorrow’s match, and then he’s working out the group in training. That would suggest a return is on the cards, but without medical clearance, Suarez won’t feature at all. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see on this one, but really, it’s our only concern headed into the match which naturally, is good news.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Ergo, we can probably send out our strongest possible line-up in a bid to get the win that would wrap up the title. That means a start for <span>Claudio Bravo</span> in goal with the Chilean on a streak of five successive clean sheets, his second longest streak of the season. From Jornada 1 to Jornada 8 of course, Barça didn’t concede a single goal to start the season off strong; now here we are at the end of the campaign with a similar streak under our belts. It just goes to show, under Luis Enrique our squad is at its best when it really matters.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">In defense, <span>Dani Alves</span> should start on the right after scoring a sensational goal in training today, and he is likely to be joined in defense by Gerard Piqué, <span>Javier Mascherano</span> and Jordi Alba. The latter has promised, reportedly, to shave his head if Barça end the season lifting the UEFA Champions League trophy in Berlin – perhaps giving some Culés a reason to root for Juventus.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">All joking aside, it’s our strongest backline and while Jeremy Mathieu might fancy his chances at earning a start tomorrow, Mascherano has been an ever-present against Atleti this season and it’s hard to see Piqué being dropped. There’ll be plenty of opportunity for the Frenchman, and our other fringe defenders next week once the title is secured when we host Deportivo La Coruna.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">In midfield, <span>Sergio Busquets</span> should start at pivote and I expect that he will be supported by Ivan Rakitić and Andrés Iniesta. Xavi Hernández is a lock to start next week against Deportivo given that it may be his final La Liga match at the Camp Nou, but he is a candidate to come off the bench, either to help us play out a win, or perhaps make the difference in a close-fought encounter. Don’t count out Rafinha either, but I’d be surprised if we saw him challenging Iniesta or Rakitić for a start.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Then, the attack selects itself irrespective of Suarez’ status. Lionel Messi and Neymar will start, that much is guaranteed and alone could be enough to secure victory. Messi is the greatest player of all-time after all, and Neymar has scored 11 goals in his last 10 appearances, or 37 across the course of the campaign. They have the talent to put Atleti to the sword even without Suarez, but it would of course be an easier ask with him in the line-up.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">However, I don’t want us to risk his fitness if there are any doubts; we need him to be fit for the two finals and can make do until he is 100% if there’s even the smallest chance of a relapse. You never know, Pedro might have another <i>chilena </i>up his sleeve...</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>ATLETICO MADRID</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">The title might be out of reach for Diego Simeone’s side but that doesn’t mean that they will be any less disciplined, any less focused and any less intent on claiming a victory tomorrow. After <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> dropped points last weekend, Atleti know that their actions this weekend won’t really help out their rivals so there’s less talk of them "throwing the game" than there was last week, and in my opinion that’s a good thing. We always want to see teams striving for victory, and yes, neither side would have wanted Real to win the title, but there’s never an excuse for giving less than 100%.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">The good news for the hosts is that Diego Godin is back and in the squad for tomorrow’s match, although Portuguese midfielder Tiago is out, suspended after he picked up his 5<sup>th</sup> yellow card of the season last week against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/levante">Levante</a>. No matter who starts though, we know what to expect from Atleti. The question is: will we be up to the challenge?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>FORM GUIDE</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona: WWWWW</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Atletico: WLWWDD</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>LAST MEETING</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Atletico Madrid 2-3 FC Barcelona – 28<sup>th</sup> January 2015 – Copa del Rey</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">A brace from Neymar stole the show and the win, as the Brazilian was at his sensational best to inspire the Blaugrana to their first victory at the Calderon in four attempts.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>LIKELY LINE-UPS</b></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona (4-3-3): Bravo; Alves, Piqué, Mascherano, Alba; Busquets, Rakitić, Iniesta; Messi, Suarez, Neymar</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Atletico (4-2-2-2): Moya; Juanfran, Godin, Miranda, Siqueira; Gabi, Suarez, Koke, Arda; Torres, Griezmann</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>MATCH PREDICTION</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">If Suarez starts and is firing on all cylinders, we win 2-1 – but if he doesn’t, I see us drawing instead. Officially though, I’m sticking with 2-1 Barça.</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/5/16/8615617/la-liga-atletico-madrid-vs-fc-barcelona-match-previewArron Duckling2015-05-16T07:10:02+02:002015-05-16T07:10:02+02:00Torres ALSO doesn't want a Barça win at Calderón
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<figcaption>David Ramos/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Sounds familiar?</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span>The crazy footballing soap opera we like to call "<a href="https://www.intothecalderon.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Atlético Madrid</a> Players Not Really But Kinda Sorta Trash-Talking <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> Before the Big Game on Sunday Just Because They’re Afraid They’re Going to Lose at Home and Will Have to Watch a Title Celebration" continued on Friday afternoon, when <i>Colchonero</i> striker <span>Fernando Torres</span> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sport-english.com/en/news/barca/fernando-torres-hope-barcelona-dont-win-the-league-madrid-4190666">spoke to the media</a> and followed on midfielder Koke’s footsteps.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span>Koke said a day earlier that Atleti has no intention whatsoever of letting the <i>Blaugrana</i> win at Vicente Calderón, which would clinch the 2014/15 La Liga title for the Catalans, and he also said that <span>Lionel Messi</span> "can’t make much of a difference" when he faces a complete team like Diego Simeone’s squad.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span>Torres had a similar set of quotes, and while his tone was more respectful, the message was the same: Barcelona will not celebrate the Spanish League title on Atleti’s face. Which is funny, because that’s exactly what Atleti did in Barça’s home last season, and Barça fans APPLAUDED the Atleti people.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span>"I hope that they don’t win it here. We hope to win the game ourselves and assure ourselves of third place. </span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span>"But football is like that. Atlético became champions last year at the Camp Nou and, as football and fate would have it, Barcelona has the possibility of becoming champions at our ground.</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span>"But that does not tell us anything because we are fighting a different war, and that’s win to be third and achieve our goal".</span></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span>Atlético’s goal is to finish in third place in the standings, because that would mean they wouldn’t have to go through the UEFA Champions League qualifiers. A win against Barça would clinch that opportunity to the <i>Colchoneros</i>, so they do want to defeat the <i>Blaugrana</i>, which would be a first-timer this season.</span></p>
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<p><span>Atleti players are starting to remind me of the Bayern Munich players who also talked A LOT before the UCL semifinal. We all know how that ended, right?</span></p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/5/16/8613505/fernando-torres-interview-atletico-madrid-barcelona-la-ligaRenato Gonçalves