Fermin Lopez scored twice as Barcelona overturned an early deficit to beat Atletico Madrid and preserve their lead at the top of La Liga.
Hansi Flick’s side will begin the international break three points clear after a dramatic victory at the Metropolitano Stadium. The result means Barcelona have won 11 of their 12 league matches this season, with their only dropped points coming in last month’s home defeat by Real Madrid in El Clasico.
Real Madrid had moved level with Barcelona on 30 points on Saturday after beating Valencia 3-0, although they remained behind on goal difference.
Atletico Madrid made the stronger start and should have taken the lead in the sixth minute. Julian Alvarez raced through with only Joan Garcia to beat, but took too many touches and allowed the Barcelona goalkeeper to close down the chance.
The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams hitting the woodwork. Marc Pubill headed against the crossbar for the hosts before Pedri struck the post at the other end.
Atletico Madrid did not have to wait long for a goal, however. Alvarez delivered a low cross in the 10th minute and Giuliano Simeone finished emphatically to put the home side ahead.
The match was stopped for a minute shortly 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.
Atletico Madrid continued to look the more dangerous side for much of the first half, but Barcelona found an equaliser just before the interval. The hosts failed to clear the ball, allowing Lopez time to curl his finish into the net.
Barcelona returned from half-time with greater purpose and completed the turnaround in the 66th minute. Lamine Yamal produced a precise pass into Lopez’s path, and the midfielder guided the ball beyond Jan Oblak to put the visitors in front.
Atletico Madrid pushed for a second goal but could not create a clear opportunity against Garcia, who was rarely seriously tested after the interval.
The defeat was Atletico Madrid’s second in the league this season and left them third in the table, five points behind Barcelona.
