Barcelona Player Ratings vs. Atlético Madrid: Lamine Yamal Shines in Dramatic Comeback as Ferran Torres Leads the Charge to La Liga Summit, Adding More Late Heartbreak for Diego Simeone’s Side.
Hansi Flick’s squad staged a dramatic late comeback, overturning a 2-0 deficit in the final 20 minutes to secure a vital victory over Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano.
Barcelona moved a step closer to clinching the La Liga title on Sunday after battling back to defeat their title rivals 4-2 away from home.
Both teams had midweek Champions League commitments, but despite Atlético enduring extra time and penalties against Real Madrid, they initially looked the sharper side. While Barça controlled possession as expected, Diego Simeone’s team thrived on counterattacks, a strategy that played perfectly into their hands.
Their opening goal came from a classic counter as Jan Oblak’s long ball was flicked forward, exploiting the space behind Barça’s defense. Antoine Griezmann raced onto it, delivering a low cross to Giuliano Simeone, who set up Julián Álvarez to slot the ball home just before halftime.
Barcelona’s night went from bad to worse when Alexander Sørloth doubled Atlético’s lead in the 70th minute with a near-identical goal. This time, it was Conor Gallagher who whipped the ball across the box, allowing the Norwegian to slot it home.
But a dramatic comeback was just around the corner. Only two minutes after Atleti’s second goal, Robert Lewandowski pulled one back with a moment of brilliance—chesting down a tricky cross before turning and unleashing a stunning volley. Six minutes later, Barça found their equalizer through substitute Ferran Torres, who expertly flicked a driven Raphinha cross into the net, prompting a passionate reaction from Hansi Flick on the sidelines.
The late drama continued, and it was the youngest player on the pitch who stole the spotlight. Deep into stoppage time, Lamine Yamal stepped up and unleashed a shot—helped by a deflection—that sailed past Jan Oblak, sealing all three points and giving Barça a major boost in the title race.
The visitors weren’t done yet. With the final kick of the game, Torres netted his second goal off the bench, sending Flick sprinting down the touchline in pure elation.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Wojciech Szczęsny (6/10):
Made a few key recoveries and claims to keep his team in the game, without making any major errors.
Jules Koundé (5/10):
Struggled defensively and was caught out for Atlético’s opening goal. Also received a booking.
Pau Cubarsí (6/10):
Looked uneasy at times, particularly on the right side alongside Koundé.
Iñigo Martínez (7/10):
Displayed composure and leadership at the back despite conceding twice. Also contributed with an assist for Lewandowski’s goal.
Alejandro Balde (7/10):
Brought energy and pace down the flank, consistently delivering dangerous crosses into the box.
Midfield
Pedri (8/10):
Played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s attack, frequently carrying the ball forward and distributing precise cross-field passes to create opportunities. Registered the crucial assist for the third goal.
Marc Casado (5/10):
Had little impact on the game and was understandably substituted early in the second half.
Dani Olmo (6/10):
Found it difficult to make a significant impact but still managed to deliver a few well-placed passes into dangerous areas.
Attack
Raphinha (6/10):
Struggled to reach his usual level for much of the match but produced a pinpoint cross to set up Barcelona’s second goal.
Robert Lewandowski (8/10):
Had multiple half-chances and made the most of one with a brilliant touch and clinical finish.
Lamine Yamal (8/10):
One of Barcelona’s standout performers in attack, delivering when it mattered most with a crucial late contribution.
Subs & Manager
Eric García (7/10):
Put in a solid shift in midfield after coming on for the final 20 minutes.
Ferran Torres (9/10):
Made an instant impact off the bench, scoring twice in a brilliant cameo performance.
Gerard Martin (N/A):
Came on to provide fresh legs in defense.
Ronald Araújo (N/A):
Introduced late to strengthen the backline.
Gavi (N/A):
Entered the game in the final moments.
Hansi Flick (8/10):
Timed his substitutions well, with Ferran Torres repaying his trust by netting twice.
