Flick’s masterclass ignites Barcelona’s stunning comeback against Atlético.
Barcelona produced a stunning comeback to defeat Atlético Madrid 4-2 at the Metropolitano on Sunday, reclaiming the top spot in LaLiga and extending their unbeaten streak to 18 games across all competitions.
Hansi Flick’s tactical adjustments and belief in his squad proved decisive, as Barça overturned a 2-0 deficit with just 20 minutes remaining. Goals from Julián Álvarez and Alexander Sørloth had put Atlético in control, but Flick’s attacking changes saw his side score four times—twice in stoppage time—to snatch a crucial victory and move level on points with Real Madrid, four ahead of Atlético.
After failing to beat Atlético in two previous meetings this season, Barcelona’s coach Hansi Flick acknowledged the significance of the victory.
“It was time to win after three matches [against Atlético],” Flick said in his post-match conference. “The quality was good. For the supporters, for the fans, for everyone watching on television, it was an amazing match.”
The dramatic fightback began with Robert Lewandowski’s brilliant strike in the 72nd minute. Substitute Ferran Torres then leveled the game with a header six minutes later. Youngster Lamine Yamal completed the comeback in the 92nd minute before Torres sealed the win with his second goal of the night.
Flick’s substitutions and high-pressing strategy played a key role in Barcelona’s turnaround, reinforcing his reputation as a tactician capable of inspiring his team in crucial moments.
Torres emphasized the importance of the victory heading into the international break, with Barcelona not playing again until they host Girona on March 30.
“It was important to go into the break with a win and top of the table,” he told ESPN. “Not just top, but also with a game in hand. That gives us confidence when we return.”
Despite the thrilling result, Yamal admitted that the team needs to improve their intensity from the start of matches to avoid falling behind—something Flick has continuously worked to instill in his squad.
“I think intensity above all was missing [before the comeback],” Yamal said. “We were waiting to see what happened rather than really going for it. Until they scored two goals, we didn’t step up. That can’t happen.”
Barcelona have now won seven consecutive league matches and continue to compete on multiple fronts. They are in the Copa del Rey semifinal, where they will face Atlético in the second leg after a thrilling 4-4 draw in the first, and they have also progressed to the Champions League quarterfinals, where they will meet Borussia Dortmund next month.
Flick played down talk of a potential quadruple but acknowledged his team’s ability to achieve “huge things.”
“It’s difficult. I know it’s a long way,” he said. “But I have confidence in this team that we can achieve great things. Today’s match gives us even more belief. We will try everything to win titles.”
Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone insisted his team would not give up on their LaLiga title hopes despite the setback.
“We will fight until the end. There are 10 games left, and we have to win every one of them,” Simeone said. “It’s not about luck. It’s about hard work. We have to recognize the rival was better today.”
With Flick’s leadership and tactical acumen, Barcelona’s strong momentum could be crucial in their bid to secure silverware on multiple fronts this season.
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