Ivan Rakitic opens the scoring for Barcelona (Video)

Ivan Rakitic opens the scoring for Barcelona against Atletico Madrid with a header.

Barcelona have dominated possession in the first half against Atletico Madrid, but mostly failed to create any clearcut chances against Diego Simeone’s team. Atletico had arguably the best chances of the half, and were breaking with pace and precision through Antoine Griezemann and Yannick Carrasco.

Then, in the 41st minute, Ivan Rakitic connected on a cross from Andres Iniesta to put the ball past Jan Oblak.

The goal came at the perfect time for Barca, who were looking increasingly short on attacking ideas as the half wore on. Except for a couple of tame shots — one of which Lionel Messi could have done better with on his left foot at the top of the box — Barca struggled to create.

Atletico Madrid will now be forced out of their deep defensive shape, which should allow Barcelona’s front three more space on the break. Luis Suarez hasn’t been able to get into the game so far, so he should benefit in particular.

However, this is a Simeone team we’re talking about, so don’t expect them to go all out in attack right from the start. If they keep it tight, they’ll know they will have a chance to score. Griezmann is as good as it gets on the counter attack and is unlikely to waste the few opportunities his side can forge out.

If Barcelona can hold on, they’ll move up to within one point of rivals Real Madrid, who drew with Villarreal at the Bernabeu earlier in the day. That would be a great relief to Luis Enrique, who saw his team lose to Alaves two weeks ago. This would be the perfect response.

Atletico, meanwhile, will have their work cut out if they lose. They will trail Barca and Real by four and five points, respectively.