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Atlético Madrid staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Barcelona 2-1 at the Montjuïc Olympic Stadium late on Saturday night, catapulting them to the top of the LaLiga table.
Alexander Sorloth’s stoppage-time winner sealed the victory, handing Atlético their 12th consecutive win across all competitions.
Barcelona dominated the match from start to finish, creating numerous scoring opportunities, but their lack of efficiency in front of goal ultimately proved costly. Pedri and Gavi combined beautifully to give Barcelona a deserved lead in the 30th minute, but the hosts failed to capitalize on their first-half dominance.
Atlético equalized in the 60th minute through Rodrigo de Paul, who capitalized on Marc Casado’s backheel blunder.
As the match seemed destined for a draw, Sorloth struck in the 96th minute, sending Atlético’s bench into raptures and securing a vital three points.
The win lifts Atlético to the top of the LaLiga table, three points clear of Barcelona, with a game in hand over both Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Diego Simeone’s side will now celebrate Christmas Day in first place, buoyed by their 12-game winning streak.
The defeat marked a continuation of Barcelona’s recent struggles in the league, with the Catalan giants having won only once in their last seven games.
Atlético, meanwhile, continue to build momentum, and with their winning streak showing no signs of abating, they are increasingly looking like genuine title contenders.
Atletico Madrid have now won a league match against Barcelona away for the first time in 18 years and the first time ever under manager Diego Simeone.
