On April 2, 2025, the stage was set for a thrilling encounter as FC Barcelona faced Atlético Madrid in the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid. With the aggregate score tied at 4-4 after a high-scoring first leg, both teams were poised for an intense battle, knowing that the winner would secure a spot in the final against Real Madrid, who had already advanced by defeating Real Sociedad the day before.
The atmosphere was electric as fans filled the stands, eager to witness a match that promised drama and excitement. The stakes were high for both teams, with Atlético Madrid looking to avenge their recent 4-2 defeat to Barcelona in La Liga just a few weeks prior. Coach Diego Simeone emphasized the importance of the match, stating, "It’s time to step up," highlighting the determination within his squad to reclaim their place in the final.
Barcelona, on the other hand, arrived with confidence after a strong showing in the tournament, having won three matches and drawn one, including the first leg against Atlético. However, they faced significant challenges with injuries to key players. Goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, forward Dani Olmo, and defender Marc Casadó were all sidelined for this crucial encounter, putting additional pressure on the remaining squad members.
The match kicked off at 13:30 hours (Mexico City time), and both teams started with high intensity. Barcelona quickly took control of the game, showcasing their offensive prowess. In the 26th minute, Lamine Yamal made a brilliant run down the left flank, delivering a precise assist to Ferran Torres, who calmly slotted the ball into the net, putting Barcelona ahead 1-0. This goal not only boosted Barcelona’s confidence but also added to the pressure on Atlético Madrid to respond.
As the first half progressed, Atlético struggled to find their rhythm. Despite having a fully fit squad, they were unable to convert their possession into meaningful chances. Barcelona continued to dominate, controlling the pace of the game and restricting Atlético’s opportunities. The first half ended with Barcelona leading 1-0, and the aggregate score tipping in their favor at 5-4.
In the second half, Atlético Madrid came out with renewed vigor, determined to find an equalizer. Their efforts were momentarily stifled when Alexander Sorloth had a goal disallowed for offside in the 67th minute, a decision confirmed by VAR. The tension in the stadium escalated as Atlético pushed forward, desperately seeking a way back into the match.
Barcelona, while still maintaining a degree of control, began to show signs of fatigue. Atlético seized the opportunity to increase their attacking pressure, with several close calls that had the crowd on the edge of their seats. However, Barcelona's defense, led by Wojciech Szczęsny, held firm, denying Atlético any clear-cut opportunities to level the score.
Despite their best efforts, Atlético Madrid could not find the back of the net, and as the clock ticked down, it became increasingly clear that Barcelona was on the verge of securing their place in the final. The match concluded with a 1-0 victory for Barcelona, advancing them to the Copa del Rey final with a 5-4 aggregate score.
Barcelona's triumph was celebrated by their traveling supporters, who had witnessed their team overcome significant adversity with injuries and pressure. After the match, Ferran Torres expressed his joy, stating, "We knew it would be tough, but we believed in ourselves. This victory means everything to us, and we’re looking forward to the final against Real Madrid."
As Barcelona prepares for the final on April 26, 2025, at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Sevilla, they will need to build on this momentum and address the challenges posed by their arch-rivals. The upcoming clash against Real Madrid promises to be a historic encounter, with both teams eager to claim the coveted trophy.
Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid will need to regroup after this setback. Coach Simeone will undoubtedly analyze the match, looking for ways to improve his team’s performance moving forward. The defeat serves as a reminder of the fine margins in football, and Atlético will be eager to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.
In summary, the Copa del Rey semi-finals delivered the excitement and drama that fans have come to expect, and as the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, all eyes will now turn to the final, where Barcelona and Real Madrid will clash in what is sure to be a monumental showdown.
