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Atletico - Barca game of the week in Primera Liga

Xinhua, September 11, 2015 Adjust font size:

Atletico Madrid and FC Barcelona go head to head in what looks to be the standout game in the third round of matches of the BBVA Primera Liga on Saturday.

The last two league champions have both kicked off the season with a 100 percent record, so something has to give on Saturday night in the Vicente Calderon Stadium.

Once again the international break has caused problems for both coaches, who have not been able to work with their star players until the very end of the week and that could provoke Atletico coach, Diego Simeone to start the game with Fernando Torres in attack but with Jackson Martinez on the subs' bench.

One player who will start is French striker Antoine Griezmann, who has been in excellent form in the early season and Griezmann assures that Atletico will be prepared to play a waiting game.

"It's a massive game for us and for the people who are watching at home and on TV," said Griezmann.

"We will go out to give everything and to try and win," he commented, adding that "Barcelona always look to have the ball, they will try to pressure us high up the field and we have to be strong at the back and then try and score," he said.

Barcelona meanwhile are without the injured Dani Alves and the suspended Gerard Pique and with their defense looking vulnerable, they will be hoping they have recovered the best Neymar, after his pre-season was spoiled by a dose of mumps.

The Brazilian was annoyed at being substitute for his country in games against Costa Rica and the USA, but came off the bench against the USA to score two goals.

With Atletico renowned for their rock solid defense and ability to pack the box, a moment of magic from Neymar, Messi or Suarez could again be decisive, but Griezmann will also be looking to have something to say about that. Endit