Barcelona have the opportunity to go 3 points clear at the top following the not so shocking defeat of Real. And Atletico have the opportunity to get some breathing space in the race for top four and get some space between them and the team that defeated Real, Villarreal.
Barcelona would have to do without Lewandoski who is still suspenended and the experience of Alba, who is also suspended.
Most bookies favor the league leaders, despite the suspensions and the fact that Atletico are playing at home.
- Jay -
Barcelona's performance after the Qatar world cup has not been completely convincing. if there is no improvement, then this away match against Atletico could be a difficult game for them. the reason is, Barcelona cannot play Lewandowski. also, Jordi Alba who had to undergo a red card suspension. to be sure, without Lewandowski Barcelona will have difficulty on the Barcelona front line to break into their opponent's goal.
on the other hand, losing Jordi Alba will not be a problem for the Barcelona squad. the reason is, currently Barcelona is free of injured players. well, so the problem right now is in front of them. I'm curious who will be the main starter, is it Ansu Fati, Depay or Ferran Torres. in fact, this match could be a proving match for Depay and Ansu Fati, who Xavi could rotate as a center forward.
On the other hand, Atletico Madrid's performance has not shown their best performance. Atletico are still struggling to win match after match, so they are only able to rank 4th on the standings and are 11 points behind Barcelona and Real Madrid. even so, this match should have been a match owned by Diego Simeone's squad. even so, it does not mean that Barcelona can be conquered easily. my estimation, Barcelona will win the game with a slim score.