'We deserved victory' - Flick backs Barcelona to keep fighting after Atletico comeback

Fermin Lopez scored twice to secure three valuable points for Barcelona, with Flick praising his players' character and response after a difficult first half.

"We have the quality to win these kinds of matches. I have a lot of faith in this team. It's not easy to win here," the German coach said.

"These three points are fantastic, but there is still a long way to go. We work every day with trophies in mind."

Flick was particularly pleased with Barcelona's improvement after the break, admitting that his team had struggled to get close enough to their opponents during the opening period.

"The first half wasn't perfect, but the second half was. I think we deserved the victory," he added.

The Barcelona coach also highlighted the importance of his team's improved pressing, which helped them regain control of the contest.

"Our pressing at 1-1 was very important. Before that, we were too far away from our opponents. That improved in the second half," Flick explained.

Flick also revealed that Frenkie de Jong's deployment at right-back was part of a tactical plan discussed before the match.

"I had spoken with Frenkie before the game about whether he could play in that position. He told me that if the team needed him, he was willing to help," he said.

"The initial plan was to position Frenkie de Jong at full-back and replace Bernal when he got tired. It worked out well."

The victory was particularly important for Barcelona after their recent defeats against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, giving them a timely boost in the La Liga title race.

The result leaves Barcelona three points ahead of Real Madrid at the top of the standings heading into the international break.

Flick, however, was quick to stress that his team cannot afford to become complacent, insisting that there is still plenty of work ahead as they pursue silverware.

Barcelona will return to La Liga action against Villarreal on November 22 at the Spotify Camp Nou.