One of the most intense rivalries in world football, Atlético Madrid and Barcelona are set to face off once again this year. This classic rivalry has been played out since the early 1900s, and is one of the most iconic derbies in Spain. Here we will look at the history, stats and what to expect from this upcoming game.
The History
The first ever match between Atlético Madrid and Barcelona was played on the 13th of February, 1902. The game resulted in a 1-0 victory for Barcelona, with the game being played at Camp de la Indústria in Barcelona. Since then, the rivalry has grown and become one of the most iconic rivalries in world football.
The rivalry has been further intensified by the fact that the two sides have won the La Liga title on numerous occasions, and have won a combined total of 17 Champions League titles. This has only added to the animosity between the two sides, with each one desperate to get one over the other.
Recent Results
The two sides have played each other a total of 127 times, with Barcelona having the upper hand in terms of wins. The Catalan side have won 56 times, with Atlético Madrid coming out victorious on 39 occasions. The most recent meeting between the two sides was in February of this year, with Barcelona coming out on top with a 3-2 victory.
In recent years, the two sides have been fairly evenly matched. Since the 2015-16 season, the two sides have played each other a total of 11 times, with Barcelona winning 6 times and Atlético Madrid winning 4 times, with one draw. This shows that the rivalry between the two is still as intense as ever.
Key Players
Barcelona’s key players in this game will be Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Antoine Griezmann. Messi has been the talismanic figure for Barcelona, and will be looking to add to his impressive goal tally against Atlético Madrid. Suarez has also been in fine form this season, and will be looking to lead the line for Barcelona. Griezmann, who moved from Atlético Madrid to Barcelona last summer, will be looking to get one over on his former club.
Atlético Madrid will be relying on their star striker, Diego Costa. Costa has been in excellent form this season, and will be looking to add to his impressive goal tally in this game. Other key players for Atlético Madrid will be midfielder Koke and defender Felipe. Both players have been instrumental in Atlético’s success this season, and will be looking to put in a strong performance in this game.
What to Expect
This game is sure to be an intense and thrilling affair. Both sides will be desperate to get one over on their rivals, and will be looking to put in a strong performance. It is sure to be a game filled with drama, and one that will be remembered for many years to come.
Conclusion
The upcoming Atlético Madrid vs Barcelona game is sure to be a classic. Both sides have a history of intense rivalry and will be looking to put in a strong performance. The game is sure to be filled with drama and is one that will be remembered for many years to come.