Photo Credit: Getty Images
Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres scored in stoppage time as Barcelona staged a dramatic comeback from two goals down to defeat Atletico Madrid and move to the top of La Liga.
Barcelona entered the match knowing that a win would take them ahead of Real Madrid, while Atletico had the opportunity to overtake them into second place. Atletico seemed set to bounce back from their Champions League last-16 exit against Real Madrid, where Julian Alvarez was penalized for a double-kick in the decisive shootout. Alvarez gave Atletico the lead just before halftime, finishing off Giuliano Simeone's cross.
The visitors doubled their advantage in the 70th minute when Alexander Sorloth converted inside the box from a Conor Gallagher assist. Atletico looked in control, but Barcelona responded instantly. Robert Lewandowski pulled one back in the 72nd minute with a superb strike, and just six minutes later, Ferran Torres equalized with a header from Raphinha's cross.
Atletico had a chance to reclaim the lead when Sorloth was put through on goal, but his shot went wide. Barcelona then completed their comeback in stoppage time. Yamal put them ahead with a curling, deflected strike in the 92nd minute, before Torres sealed the win with a composed low finish just before the final whistle.
With the victory, Barcelona now lead La Liga with 60 points, ahead of Real Madrid on goal difference. However, crucially, Barcelona have a game in hand, keeping them in control of the title race. Atletico Madrid remain in third place, four points behind the top two, but they still have two games in hand.
Barcelona are not only pushing for the league title but also aiming for European success, as they prepare to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarter-finals. Their new coach, Hansi Flick, will look to maintain momentum as they continue their quest for silverware on multiple fronts.
