Barcelona travels to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano this Sunday to face Atlético Madrid in a La Liga match that will decide the league's leadership. The match, a first encounter between the two teams this season, comes on the heels of a Champions League week where the clubs had contrasting results, as ARA reported.

Barcelona’s Pursuit of the Top Spot

Barcelona has accumulated 30 points from a possible 33 in La Liga, securing ten victories and suffering only one defeat. Their attacking prowess is on full display, having scored 46 goals in eleven matches while conceding only 12. This dominant form was recently reinforced with a 3-0 victory over Aston Villa in the Champions League, featuring a doublet from Raphinha and a goal from Lamine Yamal.

Atlético Madrid eliminated Barcelona from both the Copa del Rey and the Champions League, results that still linger in the minds of players and fans.

Atlético’s Resilience in La Liga

While Atlético Madrid suffered a 0-2 defeat to Bayern Munich at home in midweek, their focus now shifts back to the league where they remain a force to be reckoned with. The team has 28 points, having won nine of their eleven league matches. A 0-2 away victory over Levante last weekend extended their winning streak in La Liga to seven consecutive games, showcasing their resilience in the domestic competition.

Team News and Key Absences

Barcelona will be without midfielder Rodri, who has been sidelined by a minor injury to his right biceps femoris sustained during the Aston Villa game. The club has not yet provided a timeline for his return. However, Flick receives a boost with the return of Eric Garcia and Andreas Christensen.

For Atlético Madrid, the absence of Cuti Romero is a significant blow. The Argentine’s defensive presence will be missed, but Simeone may have Johnny Cardoso available.

Probable Lineups

Barcelona is expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation. The probable starting XI includes Joan Garcia in goal, with a defensive line of Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsí, Gerard Martín, and João Cancelo. The midfield trio could consist of Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, and Fermín, while the attack will likely feature Lamine Yamal and Raphinha flanking Anthony Gordon.

Atlético Madrid also favors a 4-3-3 system. Jan Oblak is expected to start in goal, protected by a back four of Marcos Llorente, Marc Pubill, Hancko, and Alejandro Grimaldo. Hjulmand, Pablo Barrios, and Kang-In Lee could form the midfield, with Giuliano Simeone and Julián Álvarez leading the line, supported by Álex Baena on the wing.

Match Details and Viewing Information

The match is scheduled for this Sunday at 21:00 at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid. For viewers, the game will be broadcast on Movistar through its LaLiga TV Bar and M+ LaLiga channels. Live minute-by-minute updates will also be available through the ARA platform.

The officiating team for the match will be led by referee Javier Alberola Rojas from the Castellanomanxec Committee, with Javier Iglesias Villanueva from the Gallec Committee serving as the VAR official.

FAQ

What time does the Barcelona vs. Atlético Madrid match start?

The match kicks off at 21:00 this Sunday at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid.

Where can I watch the game?

The match will be televised on Movistar via LaLiga TV Bar and M+ LaLiga. Live updates can also be followed on the ARA platform.

Who is the referee for the match?

Javier Alberola Rojas will be the on-field referee, with Javier Iglesias Villanueva overseeing the VAR.

Are there any major injuries affecting either team?

Yes, Barcelona will be without Rodri due to a biceps femoris injury, while Atlético Madrid is missing Cuti Romero in defense.

What is the current league standing between the two teams?

Barcelona has 30 points, while Atlético Madrid has 28 points. A win for Barcelona would solidify their lead at the top of the table.