Atlético Madrid vs Barcelona: 3 key battles ahead of top of the table La Liga clash

Atlético Madrid host Barcelona in a crucial top-of-the-table La Liga match at the Metropolitano on Sunday night. Barcelona currently sit level with Real Madrid at 30 points, while Atlético sit just two points behind and could claim top spot with a victory.

The writer identifies three decisive battles: 19-year-old Pau Cubarsí anchoring an injury-hit Barcelona defense against Julián Álvarez, Pedri matching up with Marcos Llorente in midfield following Rodri's hamstring injury, and winger Lamine Yamal facing off against left-back Álex Grimaldo.