Title hopefuls Atlético Madrid and Barcelona clash in a huge game at the top of La Liga on Sunday. The Catalans are hoping to extend their advantage by winning at the Estadio Metropolitano.

Atlético Madrid Hoping Grimaldo Can Deliver Again

Cristian Romero is the only likely injury absentee for Atlético Madrid heading into this encounter. Diego Simeone is still expected to make some alterations to the side that lost 2-0 at home to Bayern München in midweek.

Morten Hjulmand, who was banned in Europe, may return in midfield. Lee Kang-in could also feature in an attacking midfield role. The Korean has registered two goals and an assist in 11 league outings.

Alejandro Grimaldo will have a key role to play from left-back. He has scored or assisted on six occasions already in La Liga 2026/27. However, his primary task here will be to keep Lamine Yamal quiet.

Atlético Madrid predicted lineup vs Barcelona (4-2-3-1): Oblak; Llorente, Pubill, Hancko, Grimaldo; Hjulmand, Barrios; Simeone, Lee, Baena; Álvarez.

Barcelona Hit by Rodri Blow

A hamstring injury for Rodri took the shine off a 3-0 win for Barcelona against Aston Villa in the Champions League on Tuesday. The midfielder will now miss this clash, while Dani Olmo, Roony Bardghji and Xavi Espart remain sidelined.

There is also uncertainty at the back with Jules Koundé, Eric García and Andreas Christensen rated doubtful. Pau Cubarsí, who is averaging 1.5 tackles and 3.6 clearances per game in La Liga, will lead the defensive effort.

Yamal has registered five goals and five assists in seven appearances in all competitions since the last international break. The winger will be hoping to create chances for Raphinha, who netted twice against Villa.

Barcelona predicted lineup vs Atlético Madrid (4-2-3-1): J. García; Fariñas, Cubarsí, Martín, Cancelo; Bernal, Pedri; Yamal, Fermín, Gordon; Raphinha.

Atlético Madrid vs Barcelona Prediction

  • Safe Tip: Over 2.5 goals
  • Odds: 1.32 (22Bet)
  • Correct score prediction: Atlético Madrid 2-2 Barcelona
  • 22Bet Booking Code: N4C8V

Key stats:

  • Five of the past six meetings between the clubs across all competitions in Madrid have finished with three or more goals.
  • Barcelona matches in La Liga this season are averaging 5.27 goals per 90 minutes.
  • 64% of Atleti’s league fixtures have ended with at least three goals.

With defensive injuries affecting both clubs, the attacking players are expected to thrive. Barcelona have been outstanding in the final third this season, and they average 4.40 goals per game on the road in the Spanish top flight.

Atlético Madrid have kept three straight clean sheets in La Liga. A disciplined performance from the hosts is the clearest risk when backing a high-scoring affair.

However, Barça have netted twice or more on four of their past six visits to the Estadio Metropolitano. Atleti are averaging 2.20 goals per game at home in the league this term, and backing over 2.5 goals here is a safe pick at 1.32.

Atlético Madrid vs Barcelona Prediction, Value Tip

  • Value Tip: Raphinha to score a goal including substitutions
  • Odds: 1.976 (22Bet)
  • 22Bet Booking Code: 32F8V

Raphinha is the top scorer in La Liga with 15 goals in just 10 appearances. He has quickly adapted to playing as a striker rather than a winger this season.

Across all competitions, the Brazilian averages a goal every 49 minutes. He offers value to score at some stage in this match at 1.976.

Verdict: Over 2.5 goals (1.32) — Atlético Madrid 2-2 Barcelona.