Barcelona defeats Atletico Madrid 3-0 to go up to second place.

March 17, MADRID (Reuters) - Joao Felix, Robert Lewandowski, and Fermin Lopez scored goals as Barcelona easily defeated Atletico Madrid 3-0 on Sunday to take second place in the LaLiga rankings.

The hosts controlled the first few minutes of play, but in the 38th, a brilliant passing play involving Lewandowski setting up Felix for a simple close-range goal gave Barcelona the lead.

Two minutes into the second half, Raphinha nicked the ball from Rodrigo de Paul of Atletico to set up the Pole for his 13th league goal of the year, doubling the lead for Lewandowski.

Coach Xavi Hernandez's dismissal in the first half didn't seem to phase the visitors, and in the 65th minute, Lopez completed the rout with a thunderous header off Lewandowski's second assist of the game.

It was most likely the most comprehensive game. Speaking about their Champions League victory midweek, Xavi remarked, "It was a match similar to the one against Napoli."

It perfectly complements our approach and gaming philosophy. No one unwinds here at Barca. We will make an effort to get better and contend for the two most significant titles.

"I have a strong desire for my team to succeed. Although I thought the sending off was harsh and unnecessary, we must accept it."

Barcelona climbed up to 64 points, eight behind leaders Real Madrid, in the league after Girona's 1-0 loss at Getafe on Saturday.

"We have faith that will last. Attempting to score less points and defend the league," Lopez remarked. Xavi instructed me to play nicely. We want to maintain this positive dynamic for as long as we can, in my opinion.