Balde, Casado react after Barcelona 3-1 Atletico Madrid – ‘We came out firing on all cylinders’

FC Barcelona extended their lead at the top of the La Liga table to four points after they defeated Atletico Madrid 3-1 at the Spotify Camp Nou on Tuesday night.

Despite going behind early in the game, the Blaugrana fought back and dominated throughout on their way to a critical victory, riding on goals from Raphinha, Dani Olmo, and Ferran Torres.

Alejandro Balde speaks out after win

Alejandro Balde, who got an assist on the night, spoke to the media after the game, where he praised the team’s attitude.

“I think we were playing a great game. The most important thing is how the team reacted to conceding a goal. I’m pleased with the team’s attitude,” said the Barcelona left-back.

Talking about the importance of the win for the team, the La Masia graduate noted: “I think today’s match was very important because of the opponent we faced. This victory will give us a lot of confidence.”

Balde also sympathised with Robert Lewandowski, who was guilty of missing a penalty on the night, saying: “We are all human and we all make mistakes. There’s nothing to say to Lewandowski.”

The left-back also highlighted how the team performed exceptionally in defence, stating: “Normally, the offensive phase is valued, and I think we were very good defensively today, and that should be valued.”

Concluding, Balde noted that the return of important players from injury had helped Barcelona improve their level.

“The more players available, the more options and the more competition. That motivates us more. Little by little, we’ll get back to our best and have a great season.”

Marc Casado pleased with performance

Casado in action against Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Marc Casado, who was overlooked for the starting XI despite Frenkie de Jong’s absence, came on in the second half and played his part to ensure Barcelona maintained their lead.

And the Spanish midfielder was full of praise for the team’s reaction after they conceded early on in the game, saying:

“We know that Atletico is always a tough opponent. I think the team played a very good match. We came out firing on all cylinders. We knew how to react to their goal, thanks also to the support of a crowd that was spectacular.”

Continuing, he added: “They were very well positioned at the beginning. As the minutes went by, spaces opened up. Raphinha always makes spectacular runs and Pedri’s pass was incredible.”

Casado also provided an update on the condition of Dani Olmo, who had to be taken off with a shoulder injury, saying:

“Olmo has hurt his shoulder. I don’t know what it is right now, and he has tests tomorrow. Let’s hope it’s nothing serious because his performance today was incredible.”

On a final note, the La Masia midfielder signed off by saying that Barcelona can beat any team if they maintain this attitude.

“I think the team has shown that if we give our all on the field and do things right, we can win difficult matches like today’s,” he concluded.

Source: MARCA