Barcelona Stun Atletico Madrid with Late Comeback

Ferran Torres scored twice to help Barcelona beat Atletico Madrid 4-2 in a thrilling LaLiga match on Sunday to return to the top of the standings. After last week’s Osasuna home game postponement, Barca have 60 points and a game in hand. They’re tied with Real Madrid, who beat Villarreal 2-1 on Saturday.

“I am happy and proud of this team,” Barcelona coach Hansi Flick told reporters. “They persevere… A nice three points and we’re thrilled to be top.”

Atletico is third with 56 points after 28 games. On the stroke of halftime, Julian Alvarez scored his 11th league goal of the season after Antoine Griezmann broke quickly and found Giuliano Simeone, who curled a superb pass.

Diego Simeone’s team increased their lead in the 70th minute when substitute Alexander Sorloth scored from close range after Conor Gallagher set him up.

Barcelona reacted quickly as Robert Lewandowski headed home Inigo Martinez’s cross for a league-leading 22 goals. Torres headed home Raphinha’s cross in the 78th minute to equalise.

Lamine Yamal’s long-range shot beat Jan Oblak in stoppage time for a third, and Torres’ second put the game away.

“It was very important to get the three points today,” he remarked. “After the fury and futility of knowing we weren’t comfortable, we offered our best.

“I knew I would score in big games. I noticed Gallagher running away from me as the ball was on the opposite side of the ground, and when it got to me, I spotted the opportunity and shot.”

Thus, the clubs will play again in the Copa del Rey semi-finals at the Metropolitano on April 2 after a thrilling 4-4 draw in the first leg.