Barcelona Vs Atletico ends in hapless draw, Real Madrid edge closer to LaLiga title

Defending LaLiga champions Barcelona continued to face a reversal in ir campaign this season after y were forced to settle for a draw against Atletico Madrid. A decline in Barcelona’s run of form has been of utmost help to Real Madrid, as Zinedine Zidane’s side w have opportunity to go four points clear ahead of Lionel Messi-led team.

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Barcelona vs Atletico: Real Madrid LaLiga campaign turns fruitful with Barcelona points drop

Before game against Atletico Madrid, Barcelona had a two-point deficit against Real Madrid and a victory would have put m ahead of Los Blancos, at least temporarily. However, Catalan giants had to settle with a point at Camp u after a 2-2 draw, overshadowed by three penalties in game. In 11th minute, Barcelona got much-needed breakthrough when Diego Costa netted an own goal in his mistaken attempt to defend a corner.

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Barcelona vs Atletico: Game marred by penalties and Barcelona points loss

However, Barcelona’s lead did t last long, when Carrasco was brought down in penalty area just 8 minutes later by Arturo Vidal. Costa decided to take a shot at penalty but Marc-Andre ter Stegen produced a brilliant save. But a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) check revealed that goalkeeper did t step on goal-line during kick.

Barcelona vs Atletico: Messi's 700th goal ahead of Real Madrid LaLiga game

Thus, Atletico Madrid had ar shot at goal after VAR check, with Saul Niguez deciding to attempt this around and he went on converting kick quite well. Lionel Messi again took lead with a panenka spot-kick in 50th minute after Nelson Semedo was fouled inside penalty area by Felipe. goal marked an important milestone for Argentina international, who netted for 700th time in his professional career.

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Barcelona vs Atletico highlights: Saul scores to ensure Barcelona points dip in LaLiga

However, Barcelona’s lead in game was short-lived, again. Atletico Madrid got back into game after midfielder Carrasco again won a penalty after being fouled in penalty. Although Barcelona players appealed against alleged dive, referee went ahead with spot-kick, which was duly converted by Saul.

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Barcelona vs Atletico highlights: Barcelona points stand at 71

draw leaves Barcelona languishing on second spot in LaLiga, one less than Real Madrid LaLiga points. Los Blancos could well lead charts with a four-point advant if y defeat Getafe on Thursday (Friday according to IST). On or hand, Barcelona will next play Villareal on Sunday (Monday according to IST).

Im courtesy: AP