Search icon

Football

11th Jan 2015

Dive, yellow, goal, assist – We were just a bite short of Luis Suarez bingo tonight

The Uruguayan is settling into life nicely at Barcelona

Patrick McCarry

Luis Enrique and his tailored overcoats are safe, for another week

Luis Suarez was instrumental in Barcelona’s 3-1 win over La Liga champions Atletico Madrid at the Nou Camp this evening. The Uruguayan scored a goal, set up Neymar with a fluky assist and played a key role in Lionel Messi’s 88th minute effort.

Barca are now a solitary point behind league-leading Real Madrid following the victory over Diego Simeone’s side.

The home side deservedly took a first-half lead when Suarez attempted to control a cross into the box. The ball ricocheted off his thigh but Neymar pounced to sweep home.

Messi turned provider for Suarez’ score as he squared for the striker to crisply finish. Mario Mandzukic pulled one back from the penalty spot and, minutes after, Simeone sprung Fernando Torres from the bench.

The former Liverpool striker was a frustrated spectator in the closing stages as Suarez’ influence grew. He was first booked for arguing with the referee and then got international colleague Diego Costa a caution after embellishing a tough challenge out on the right wing.

The tie was settled with two minutes to go when Ivan Rakitic teed up Messi to tap home at the second time of asking.

The FootballJOE quiz: Were you paying attention? – episode 10