Atlético 1x1: Barrios injury halts comeback, Arsenal doubts linger | OneFootball

Atlético’s attempted fightback stalled as Barrios suffered fresh problems on his first start since 5 February, with Arsenal looming in the Champions League.

As reported by as.com, Jan Oblak produced an early save after two minutes but was beaten by Paredes unmarked from a corner, then could not keep out a Guruzeta header. Questions over high balls persist despite sharp stops from efforts like one by Yuri. Simeone must choose between Oblak and Musso, although it appears likely to be the Slovenian.

Llorente returned to right-back to shackle Nico, strong in one-on-one duels, and was withdrawn to protect him. Barrios mixed recoveries with rust then went off, casting doubt on his involvement next week.

Griezmann struck a crucial goal but his passing was erratic and Atlético rely on his acceleration of play. Given a start up front to rest Julián Alvarez, Sorloth improved after the break, taking a Baena pass to make it 2-1, then drove from midfield to beat Unai Simón for a third. He took a knock after scoring but finished.

Baena also delivered the cross before Griezmann’s goal and combines best with the Frenchman. Koke dropped to build play and the side’s reliance on him grew with Barrios’ blow. Among the changes, Cardoso replaced Barrios and could add muscle against Arsenal, Nahuel Molina set up Sorloth, Nico Gonzalez worked on the left and may feature if Lookman falls short, while Le Normand and Vargas managed minutes.

Source: as.com