Barcelona, SPAIN – League leaders Barcelona secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over 10-man Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium on Saturday night, extending their lead at the top of the La Liga table to seven points. Robert Lewandowski proved to be the match-winner, breaking the hosts’ stubborn resistance with a late goal in the dying minutes of the game.
Okay News understands that the match’s complexion changed significantly deep into the first half when Atletico’s Gonzalez was shown a red card, leaving the home side to play the majority of the encounter with a numerical disadvantage. Despite the constant attacking pressure from the Catalans, Diego Simeone’s men defended resolutely to keep the scores level heading into the final stages of the match.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 87th minute in somewhat fortuitous circumstances. Joao Cancelo delivered a cross from the left flank, which Atletico goalkeeper Juan Musso attempted to parry. However, the ball deflected off Lewandowski’s shoulder at close range and sneaked past the keeper, sealing all three points for the visitors.
The crucial victory gives Barcelona a comfortable seven-point cushion over fierce rivals Real Madrid, who suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Mallorca earlier in the day, though Los Blancos still have a game in hand. Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid remain in fourth place following the defeat.
