La Liga Match Preview: Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona – The Match for Numero Uno

It is the most awaited match of the season. Both are going neck-to-neck, separated by one goal. Yes, we are talking about the match between La Liga Table Toppers Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. With both teams on 45 points, it is the match for the Top Spot of the Primiera Division. The Atleti have surprised one and all by their superior performance led by coach Diego Simeone. And Barca coach Tata Martino recently acknowledged Simeone’s impressive coaching style and Atleti’s track record this season.

The Atleti have been the best of teams of La Liga, not losing a single match or dropping a single point at home and come to the match with 5 straight wins. Atletico has been very impressive, scoring 20 goals to 3 conceded. Costa, Atletico’s top striker comes into the match in an excellent form for Atletico while right back Juanfran will be back after sitting out against Malaga. Costa has been La Liga’s top scorer firing 19 goals this season, with the Atleti being highly dependent on him for goals. However, Diego Godin’s fitness is yet to be confirmed but the defender is unlikely to sit out in a key clash like this.

While the Atleti continue to move from strength to strength, the Catalans are expected to rise to the occasion with the return of Messi against Getafe in Copa del Rey. Messi was seen to be in scintillating form, scoring 2 goals. However, the Atleti will not go so easy on the Catalan giants. Neymar, who had to pull out of the clash against Getafe due to gastroenteritis is expected to be back for the crucial match. Additional firepower for Barca will be seen with the return of Xavi in midfield. Jordi Alba, Pique and Dani Alves’ return is going to strengthen the Catalans significantly. Barca have been impressive this season, winning 21 games out of 23, losing only once to Atletic Bilbao. With the entire team back, the Catalan giants are expected to be at their best, as with the Atleti.

There is very little to choose between the two teams. While Barca have big names, Atletico’s lesser known players have routed big teams to top the table. However, Barca is expected to have the slight edge as the entire team is back on board with their ever potent duo of Messi and Fabregas back in action. However, Simeone has always sprung a surprise. Will he be able to do so again? Only time will tell as all actions are set on Estadio Vicente Calderon for the key clash, that could change the standings of Primiera.