One of the most anticipated matches in the Spanish league takes place on Sunday when first place Barcelona takes on second place Atletico Madrid.
Barcelona has dominated the series in the last few years, but Madrid is off to its best start in history and is only six points behind Barcelona for first place in the league. Much of Atletico's success is thanks to Colombian striker Radamel Falcao who broke out for five goals in a 6-0 drubbing of Deportivo la Coruña. The match followed Madrid's loss to cross town rival Real Madrid and served to re-establish the side's potency. Falcao has recorded 16 goals on the season and is the second best scorer in the league. He leads Cristiano Ronaldo who has 13 goals on the season. The team has won four, drawn one, and lost two on the road, but they face a Barcelona side that has been virtually perfect at home.
Lionel Messi's side has won six and drawn once at home and leads the Spanish league with 50 goals scored. Messi leads the league with 23 goals while Cesc Fabregas (9 assists) and Andres Iniesta (8 assists) lead the league in helpers. Barcelona has not lost this season and is off the best start in club history under the guidance of coach Tito Vilanova. Messi already has 88 goals in his historic year and will look to add more.
This match is of utmost importance to both sides. A loss for Madrid puts them nine points behind Barcelona while a win cuts Barça's lead to just three points. A loss for Atletico could also cut their lead over third place Real Madrid to just two points if the latter side wins its match on Sunday.
Prediction: Barcelona will not win every game this season. I think this ends in a 1-1 draw between the two sides.
Start Time: 3 PM EST
TV Info: beIn Sport USA