Exceptional number: Atlético pose a tough test for Barcelona's attack

FC Barcelona face a tough attacking test against Atlético Madrid this Sunday evening at the Metropolitano Stadium, given the defensive solidity of Diego Simeone's team, especially during the first half, in which they have conceded only one goal in LaLiga this season.

FC Barcelona has the upper hand offensively, having scored 46 goals in the competition, which is more than double Atlético's total of 22 goals. This comes despite the two teams being separated by only two points in the league table, thanks to the defensive strength of the Madrid side.

According to "Mundo Deportivo", Atlético have conceded only 8 goals in LaLiga, and their net has only been breached once in the first half, which was against Deportivo Alavés from a penalty scored by Lucas Boyé in the 45+6th minute, before Atlético won the match 2-1.

Statistics reveal a clear difference in the two teams' styles, as FC Barcelona scored 22 goals in the first half and 24 in the second, while Atlético netted 6 goals before the break and 16 after, earning 11 points thanks to their goals in the second half.

The newspaper also clarified that Atlético are currently sixth in the virtual standings at the break with 17 points, compared to FC Barcelona's top position with 28 points. Meanwhile, the Madrid team is third in the actual standings with 28 points, with FC Barcelona leading the table with 30 points.

FC Barcelona possess the weapon of early scoring, having found the net within the first 15 minutes in 9 matches out of 15 played in LaLiga and the UEFA Champions League, winning all of them. Eyes are now on which team will succeed in imposing their style during the upcoming clash.

The Spanish newspaper pointed out that Diego Simeone has achieved victory over FC Barcelona three times since Hans Flick took charge of the Catalan team, making him the most successful coach against them during the German era.