Fermin Lopez scored twice as Barcelona overturned an early deficit to beat Atletico Madrid and preserve their lead at the top of La Liga.
Barcelona had been joined on 30 points by Real Madrid, who moved level with a 3-0 win over Valencia on Saturday, although they remained behind on goal difference. Hansi Flick’s side restored their advantage with victory at the Metropolitano Stadium and will enter the international break three points clear.
The result means Barcelona have won 11 of their 12 league matches this season. Their only dropped points came in last month’s home defeat by Real Madrid in El Clasico.
Atletico Madrid made the brighter start in an entertaining first half but could not make their early pressure count. Julian Alvarez was played through in the sixth minute, only to take too many touches when faced with Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia and allow the opportunity to disappear.
Both teams then hit the woodwork in a frantic spell. Marc Pubill’s header struck the crossbar for the hosts, while Pedri’s attempt for Barcelona hit the post.
Atletico Madrid did take the lead in the 10th minute. Alvarez sent a low cross into the penalty area and Giuliano Simeone finished emphatically to put the home side ahead.
Play was stopped for a minute soon afterwards as players and supporters paid tribute to Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel, who died after suffering a serious injury during a Spanish Second Division match.
The hosts continued to look the more likely side to score again, but Barcelona equalised just before half-time. Atletico Madrid failed to clear the ball, giving Lopez the opportunity to bend a finish into the net.
Barcelona improved after the interval and completed the turnaround in the 66th minute. Lamine Yamal found Lopez with an intelligent pass, and the forward calmly guided his second goal beyond Jan Oblak.
Atletico Madrid pushed for a late equaliser, but they were unable to seriously test Garcia in the Barcelona goal. The defeat was their second in the league this season and leaves them third, five points behind the leaders.
