December 03, (THEWILL) — 
Barcelona claimed a vital 3-1 victory over Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, extending their advantage at the top of LaLiga to four points ahead of Real Madrid’s forthcoming fixture against Athletic Club.
Atletico opened the scoring in the 19th minute when Alex Baena capitalised on Barcelona’s vulnerable high defensive line, finishing past Joan Garcia after Nahuel Molina delivered a precise ball over the defence.
The visitors’ lead proved short-lived, however, with Pedri setting up Raphinha to equalise seven minutes later. The Brazilian rounded the goalkeeper Jan Oblak before slotting into the empty net.
Robert Lewandowski squandered a golden opportunity to put Barcelona ahead before half-time, firing his penalty attempt well over the bar after Pablo Barrios brought down Dani Olmo inside the area.
Oblak then produced an excellent diving save to deny Lewandowski’s header moments later.
Dani Olmo broke the deadlock in the 65th minute with a composed finish across the goal, though the midfielder sustained a shoulder injury whilst celebrating.
Atletico spurned two clear chances through Thiago Almada and Antoine Griezmann in the closing stages, failing to find an equaliser.
Ferran Torres wrapped up the three points for the hosts with a close-range conversion following Alejandro Balde’s low delivery from the left flank.
The result leaves Barcelona firmly in control at the LaLiga summit.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
