After the league leaders unexpectedly dropped points at Villarreal in midweek, Partey and co. could land another blow in the title race
Atletico Madrid secured a massive lifeline in midweek as Villarreal did themselves and Diego Simeone's club a huge favour by holding Barcelona to a thrilling 4-4 draw.
Ernesto Valverde was almost made to rue his decision to leave Lionel Messi out of the classic at El Madrigal, before the Argentine phenom came off the bench to inspire his side to a stoppage-time draw.
Atleti had reduced the gap to seven points with a 2-0 success over Girona the previous night, and probably hoped for, rather than expected, a Barca slip-up before both sides face off at the Camp Nou this weekend.