Hansi Flick talks Gerard Martin, Lewandowski, Yamal and more after Atletico Madrid 1-2 Barcelona

Barcelona seized the chance to stretch their lead at the top of La Liga to seven points with eight matches left, overcoming Atletico Madrid 2-1 in a bruising Metropolitano contest that turned on two red cards and a late winner from Robert Lewandowski.

Giuliano Simeone fired Atleti ahead in the 39th minute, only for Marcus Rashford to cancel it almost immediately. The tie tilted when Nicolas Gonzalez was sent off for scything Lamine Yamal in first-half stoppage time, and Gerard Martin saw red seconds after the restart before VAR trimmed the card to yellow. With the hosts reduced to ten, Lewandowski pounced on a rebound off Juan Musso in the 87th minute to seal the victory.

Post-match, Hansi Flick praised his side’s control: “They defended very well with ten, but we played very well with the ball. We controlled the game, and I liked it.” He refused to look toward Madrid, insisting, “We never look at other teams. I’m interested in my team.” On Lewandowski’s contract, Flick said discussion can wait: “For me it’s too far away to talk about Lewandowski’s renewal. I’m happy with Robert and my players.” Yamal, visibly frustrated after leaving the pitch, was defended by Flick: “It’s normal, he gave everything and couldn’t score.” Fitness concerns linger over Bernal and Araujo, with Flick hopeful the knocks are nothing serious.

Barcelona, seven points clear, now turn to a midweek meeting with Atletico, aware the title race is far from finished.