Barcelona vs Atlético Preview: Insight on Team News, Stats, and Betting Tips

Barcelona vs Atlético Madrid: Stakes in the Title Race

Barcelona heads into this clash fresh off a 3-1 victory against Alavés, marking their fourth consecutive win in La Liga. Coach Hansi Flick highlighted the return of Raphinha as a much-needed boost, while the team continues to vie with Real Madrid for the top position, averaging over three goals per game at home over their last seven matches.

Atlético Madrid is just three points behind Barcelona following their 2-0 win against Oviedo on Saturday, clinching their sixth straight league victory. Notably, Atlético have made history by scoring first in each of their initial 14 league matches and remain unbeaten across five away games, although their scoring has been somewhat restrained in those matches.

Head-to-Head Records and Recent Trends

In their last nine encounters, Barcelona has suffered just one defeat against Atlético Madrid (W7, D1), that singular loss coming during last season’s corresponding fixture. At Camp Nou, Barcelona has lost just once in their previous 19 home league games versus Atlético (W13, D5).

Recent statistics show Barcelona’s offensive reliability, having netted at least three goals in each of their past four outings. Meanwhile, Atlético has maintained five clean sheets in their last six league matches and has not managed to score in both halves during their last ten away league games.

Key Players and Team News

Raphinha, who provided an assist against Alavés, has netted six of his last nine goals for Barcelona after the 50-minute mark. For Atlético, Alexander Sørloth has registered four league goals this season, all scored before half-time, but has yet to find the net in away matches.

Barcelona currently misses Fermín López and Gavi due to injuries, but has no new injury worries. Atlético continues to be without Robin Le Normand and Marcos Llorente. For the latest team updates, the Flashscore match centre is recommended.

Betting Insights and Win Probabilities

Barcelona’s last three home league games featured exactly four goals each, and they have consistently earned five corners in those matches. Atlético’s winning streak combined with their solid defense makes them a tough competitor.

Considering their recent forms and results, this match is anticipated to be closely fought. As noted in the original article, “it feels like an impossible task to separate these two sides at present, so our tip is to back the draw.”