Barcelona vs. Atletico Madrid Live Stream, Preview, Predictions for La Liga 2016-17 As Lionel Messi Continues Ballon d'Or Worthy Start to Season

By Staff Reporter First Posted: Sep 18, 2016 11:10 PM EDT

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid face off in the Spanish League on Wednesday.

The two sides have had a potent history in recent years and will undoubtedly be contenders to win the title. However, both sides desperately need this win after some early season stumbles.

Blaugrana has nine points from four games, including a 5-1 thrashing of Leganes his past weekend that saw Lionel Messi continue his scintillating start to the season. He already has a whopping eight goals and five assists in just seven games for his club in all competitions.

But the team lost two weekends ago against Alaves and needs to win this and hope that Real Madrid drops points to catch up.

Atletico has not been defeated this season, but the team did drop points against both Alaves and Leganos in its first two games, both draws. Since then, Atletico has had its way with the competition, winning 4-0 over Celta Vigo and then 5-0 over Sporting Gijon.

Prediction

This should be an interesting match with both sides finding their stride this past weekend. Expect a tight 2-1 win for the home side with Messi continuing his dominant play.