Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid: Battle of the La Liga Titans on Matchday 5
Published September 21, 2016 by Sol FH
Don't miss the biggest game of this week'a La Liga schedule with a clash between Barca and Atletico at 21:00 GMT.
Barcelona are still the powerhouse of La Liga, how could they not be with the incredible roster and coaching staff that has won every trophy that a club could hope for. The biggest contest for Barca is Madrid, and we are not just talking about Real. Atletico have become a superpower in La Liga and in the Champions League. Head Coach Diego Simeone has done an amazing job of building the team slowly over the last five years and paying attention to important things like work ethic, quality of players and practice. If Barcelona once dominated Atletico prior to 2014, then that has all changed and matches between these two squads are some of the most intense to watch.
Atletico travel to Camp Nou tonight and after an embarrassing loss to Alaves two weeks ago, Barcelona is hoping that they can continue winning like they did last week against Leganes. Barcelona currently sit in third place with 9 points behind unbeaten Real Madrid and Sevilla, but the season is just getting started.
In matches where Atletico beat Barcelona over the last two seasons, Barca were flat and didn't show their usual intensity and incredible play making. In their four home games this year, Barcelona have scored 17 goals. That's right, a 4.25 average per game. That is insane! They scored seven against Celtic in the Champions League, six against Betis on opening day, three against Sevilla in the Super Cup and one against Alaves in their sole loss. They are offensive powerhouses and no team can come close to the attack that Barca brings on a good day.
If Barca are the offensive specialists, Atletico are defensive Gods. They have kept clean sheets on the road against Vigo, Leganes and against PSV in Europe. Without a doubt the leading defense in La Liga and they pose a threat to any team.
La Liga Odds
Barca are obviously favorites to win tonight at Camp Nou with famed UK sportsbook bet365 posting odds in their favor at 1.61, while Atletico are way behind at 5.50. Tons of pre match and in play odds to choose from and punters could make a lot of cash with the markets at bet365 Sports tonight.
Live Streaming
bet365 Sports will be live streaming this huge game, so you will be able to watch and enjoy in-play bets while you're at it! Please do notice that live streaming isn't available in some countries, so make sure to check if you can watch from your place of residence.
