Barcelona took control of the La Liga title race as goals from Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez inspired a come from behind 2-1 win against nine-man Atletico Madrid yesterday.
Koke handed the visitors a deserved early lead, but Barca turned the game thanks to two goals in eight minutes before the break through Messi and Suarez.
Atletico’s hopes of salvaging a point were then ruined as Filipe Luis and Diego Godin were sent-off for rash challenges either side of halftime.
Victory takes Barca three points clear of Atletico at the top of the table — having also played a game less — and seven points clear of third-placed Real Madrid, who host Espanyol today.
“It is clear it is an important day for us to pick up three points against our closest rivals, but there is a long way to go,” said Barca boss Luis Enrique.
“Every game presents its difficulties and you don’t always overcome them in the most effective or spectacular way.”
Meanwhile, Atletico coach Diego Simeone refused to chastise Luis and Godin for leaving his side short-handed against the European champions.
“I have nothing to reproach them for,” said the Argentine.
“Even with nine men we maintained our way of playing. In a game you can win or lose, but I always prefer to lose in this way.” — AFP