Fermín López double sends Barça back to the top of La Liga with win at Atlético
FC Barcelona made a big statement in the title race. Away at Atlético Madrid, the Blaugranas won 2-1 on Sunday in matchday 12 of La Liga. Trailing at one stage, they turned the game around thanks to a Fermín López double and go back to the top of the table on their own with 33 points.
Rieltony LOUBOKO · Author profile ·
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The Madrid side started the match with great intensity. After several scares in front of Joan Garcia's goal, Giuliano Simeone turned that dominance into a goal in the 11th minute, meeting a cross from Julian Alvarez.
Barça tried to hit back through Lamine Yamal and Pedri, but ran into a well-organised Madrid defence. Just as Atlético seemed to be in control of their lead, Fermín López levelled in first-half stoppage time, at 45+3, with a powerful strike.
Fermín López turns the game around
After the restart, the Catalans gradually took control of the game. Atlético nonetheless continued to threaten on the counter-attack, notably through Julian Alvarez and Alex Baena, but Joan Garcia made a string of decisive saves to keep his side in the match.
In the 67th minute, Fermín López finally scored the winner. Set up by Lamine Yamal, the midfielder beat Jan Oblak to complete his brace. Despite Madrid's efforts late on, Barça held on to their advantage until the final whistle.
Barça alone at the top before the international break
The win lifts FC Barcelona back to the top of La Liga on their own with 33 points. Real Madrid, who beat Valencia 3-0, are three points behind with 30 points. Atlético Madrid remain third with 28 points.
After two defeats, against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League and Real Madrid in the league, Hansi Flick's side thus return to winning ways in an important fixture. Fermín López, who scored both Catalan goals, was named man of the match.