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Barcelona Prepares for Pivotal LaLiga Clash Against Atletico Madrid

Coach Hansi Flick emphasizes the need for focus as Barcelona aims to break their winless streak against Atletico and strengthen their title bid.

Soccer Football - Champions League - Round of 16 - Second Leg - Atletico Madrid v Real Madrid - Metropolitano, Madrid, Spain - March 12, 2025 Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone reacts REUTERS/Susana Vera/File Photo
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Soccer Football - Champions League - Round of 16 - Second Leg - FC Barcelona v Benfica - Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, Barcelona, Spain - March 11, 2025 FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick during the match REUTERS/Albert Gea/File Photo

Overview

  • Barcelona sits tied with Real Madrid atop LaLiga, with Atletico Madrid just one point behind in third place, making Sunday's match a key moment in the title race.
  • Hansi Flick warns his players to maintain focus throughout the game, citing costly lapses in their previous two matches against Atletico this season.
  • Barcelona has struggled against Atletico, losing 2-1 in December and drawing 4-4 in the Copa del Rey semifinals after conceding critical late goals in both matches.
  • Atletico Madrid recently faced a grueling Champions League elimination on penalties against Real Madrid, but Flick dismisses fatigue as a factor given Atletico's squad depth.
  • Barcelona has no new injury concerns, though Flick faces midfield selection challenges, with Gavi eager for more minutes after his recovery from a major injury.