Barcelona mount dramatic comeback to defeat Atletico, widen La Liga lead..

BARCELONA, Dec 3 — Barcelona came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid 3-1 yesterday, extending their La Liga lead to four points. Alex Baena initially gave Atletico the lead, but Raphinha equalised before Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres struck to end Atletico’s 13-game unbeaten league run.

Coach Hansi Flick praised the performance, saying it marked a step forward after some inconsistent displays. “This was one of our best matches, and we’re returning to our best level,” he said.

Barca’s victory came despite missing key players, including Ronald Araujo and Frenkie de Jong. Robert Lewandowski missed a first-half penalty, but Olmo put Barca ahead in the second half, followed by Torres’ stoppage-time goal.

Atletico coach Diego Simeone acknowledged his team’s effort but lamented their lack of finishing. The result boosts Barca’s title hopes while halting Atletico’s momentum. — AFP