Joao Félix: The Atlético Specialist Strikes Again

Joao Félix emerged as the central figure in the Atlético – FC Barcelona match, both before and during the game, but especially when he illuminated the field to break the deadlock, much to the frustration of the Metropolitano Stadium. Atlético Madrid’s fans were on high alert for Joao Félix’s return, ready to express their indignation towards him but also hoping to contain his talent, remembering his impact in their previous encounter at the Estadi Olímpic. The ‘Menino’ did it again.

The plaque dedicated to the Portuguese player outside the Civitas Metropolitano witnessed the tumult of Atlético supporters. Some defiled it with beer, beverage cans, food remnants, and papers, while one even burned a customized red-and-white shirt with the player’s name on it. Inside the stadium, the crowd jeered him during warm-up, while President Enrique Cerezo tried to ease the tension from the VIP box, stating, “We will welcome him like any of our players.” However, that wasn’t the case. Joao Félix’s name was met with intense boos when announced over the loudspeaker, and every touch of the ball, even his attempt to pressure Oblak, drew the wrath of the Atlético faithful.

The ‘Menino’ Shines in Five Minutes In strictly footballing terms, his contribution was modest during the first half-hour when Barcelona was at the mercy of Atlético’s dominance, and he barely had any involvement, touching the ball only eight times. However, as Barcelona managed to break free from Atlético’s pressure, the Portuguese star began to showcase his class. Following a warning in a quick move inside Oblak’s area, Joao Félix struck the opening goal in the 38th minute—a goal he scarcely celebrated.

Gündogan delivered a precise through ball to Lewandowski, who, inside the box and angled to the left, assisted the Portuguese. His first-time, well-placed shot was beyond the goalkeeper’s reach. Joao Félix had barely been on the field for five minutes, but he had already made a decisive impact.

In 33 matches, 9 goals… 2 against Atlético Joao’s opener dealt a blow to Atlético, and goals from Lewandowski and Fermín after halftime left Simeone’s side reeling. Despite Xavi’s dismissal, Barcelona seized control of the game, and Joao Félix managed to display a few more glimpses of his talent before being substituted in the 76th minute for Vítor Roque.

The Portuguese international headed to the bench, with a sock torn from a harsh challenge by Savic, another chorus of boos from the Metropolitano, and the feeling that his specialty is scoring against his former team. In 33 appearances, he has scored 9 goals (2 against Atlético) and provided 5 assists.