Gavi hails Barcelona’s ‘war-like’ victory over Atletico Madrid

Gavi says Barcelona’s hard-fought 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano could provide a significant boost to the team, after the visitors produced a strong second-half display.

The Barcelona midfielder spoke to the club’s media channels after the match and stressed the importance of securing the result against a side he regards as one of the most difficult opponents for his team.

“It was a hugely important victory for us,” Gavi said. “It was a decisive match for the team and we are extremely happy to have won. They created chances, but football is about scoring goals. We knew how to take our opportunities and we are proud of today’s victory.”

Barcelona had to withstand pressure from Atletico Madrid before taking control after the interval. Gavi said the result reflected a collective effort and praised the way the team managed the game.

“It was a victory achieved thanks to everyone,” he added. “We controlled the second half extremely well. We managed the match properly, and that is important for us as young players. We have improved in many areas. I am very happy for the team.”

Gavi also recognised the threat posed by Atletico, describing them as an opponent who understand how to cause Barcelona problems.

“They are a tough opponent because they know how to play against us very well,” he said.

The midfielder added that Atletico had demonstrated those qualities again, warning that they possessed the ability to inflict serious damage during the match.

“They proved that once again today,” Gavi said. “They have the tools to hurt us a great deal. These matches against Atletico are extremely difficult. They are like a war because the atmosphere is tense; in fact, it is the most tense in Europe. It was very important for us to win.”

The victory gave Barcelona a valuable result away from home, while Gavi said the team’s ability to improve after half-time had been central to overcoming Atletico Madrid.

Barcelona will face Villarreal in La Liga on 22 November 2026, while Atletico Madrid are listed to play Getafe in the same competition on that date.