La Liga Match Report: Barcelona 5-0 Atlético Madrid

After their 8-0 trouncing of Osasuna, Barcelona struggled against an on-fire Valencia with a disappointing draw in a performance which included an own goal from Éric Abidal. Last night, they were looking to get back on track against a fierce-looking Atlético Madrid, and managed to grab a resounding victory at Camp Nou, defeating Los Colchoneros 5-0. 

Even with a few key creative players on the bench, including Andrés Iniesta and talismanic Chilean midfielder Alexis Sánchez, and a strong start from Atlético, the improved cohesion and fluid 'tiki-taka' passing game from the Blaugrana, proved a powerful force, and an own goal from Atlético centre-back Miranda early on in the first half led to a slowing of momentum. 

Initially, it looked as though the Colchoneros would have the first strike, as within the first few minutes, new summer transfer Tiago launched a quality shot past Victor Valdés only to be denied by the crossbar. Barcelona responded only minutes later with a quick, short-range fire past Thibaut Courtois. Atlético presented some more great attempts, especially at the beginning of the second half, including more action from Tiago and the normally powerful Falcao, but had trouble sealing the deal. 

But Saturday night belonged to that little lethal weapon, Lionel Messi. Like his spiritual rival Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi scored a headliner of a hat trick this weekend, with the third goal coming in stoppage time. He linked up well with David Villa and Cesc Fábregas, who remained goalless for the first time since signing with the Blaugrana but provided a great assist on a Messi attempt, although Courtois pulled off the save. 

Although both sides had some impressive moments, it was Barça's night, and Messi's night in particular. Now both sides will shift the focus from La Liga to European play this week, where Atlético faces Rennes in Europa League group stage competition while Barça takes on BATE Borisov.