Atlético Madrid seized control of their Champions League destiny with a ruthless 2-0 victory over a self-destructing FC Barcelona side reduced to 10 men.

Goals from Julián Alvarez and Alexander Sørloth sealed a win that leaves Barcelona staring at a potential quarter-final exit.

Despite dominating long stretches at Camp Nou, Barcelona’s recurring disciplinary lapses once again proved costly in what was their fifth clash with Atlético this season.

The turning point came when young defender Pau Cubarsí was sent off for a last-man foul just before halftime, completely shifting the momentum.

Hansi Flick’s side continued to push forward even with 10 men, but their attacking bravery ultimately exposed defensive vulnerabilities.

Earlier chances saw Juan Musso deny Marcus Rashford, while former Barcelona star Antoine Griezmann came close at the other end.

Rashford thought he had given Barcelona the lead in the 18th minute, only for VAR to rule it out due to an offside involving Lamine Yamal earlier in the build-up.

But Atlético capitalised brutally just before the break when a VAR review confirmed Cubarsí’s dismissal after fouling Giuliano Simeone.

From the resulting free-kick, Alvarez curled a stunning effort over the wall and beyond Joan García to silence the home crowd.

Flick attempted damage control by substituting Robert Lewandowski and Pedri at halftime, but Barcelona continued to play a risky attacking game.

Rashford remained their main outlet, striking the side netting and later forcing a spectacular save from Musso with a powerful free-kick.

Despite being a man up, Atlético initially struggled to assert control but delivered a decisive second blow in the 70th minute.

Substitute Sørloth calmly finished Matteo Ruggeri’s cross, effectively punishing Barcelona’s overcommitment.

João Cancelo struck the post late on, but Barcelona’s spirited effort could not mask a damaging defeat that leaves them with a mountain to climb.