In a thrilling semifinal clash of the Copa del Rey, Barcelona took a significant step towards the final by defeating Atlético de Madrid 1-0 at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on April 2, 2025. The match, which kicked off at 3:30 PM local time, was marked by a stunning goal from Ferran Torres in the first half, solidifying Barcelona's dominance in the tournament.
The stakes were high as both teams entered this decisive second leg after a dramatic 4-4 draw in the first match. With Real Madrid already securing their spot in the final, the pressure was on Atlético to overcome a formidable Barcelona side that had not lost in 20 matches across all competitions since December 21, 2024.
Barcelona's coach, Hansi Flick, praised his squad's resilience and form, stating, "We are in a very good place right now. The team has shown incredible spirit and determination to get here. We know the challenges Atlético presents, but we feel confident in our ability to perform under pressure."
From the outset, Barcelona looked to assert their authority, and it didn’t take long for them to find the back of the net. In the 27th minute, Ferran Torres scored with a precise shot from the center of the area, putting the Catalans ahead. The goal came after a brilliant assist from Lamine Yamal, who showcased his playmaking skills throughout the match.
Atlético Madrid, under the guidance of Diego Simeone, faced a tough challenge. The team had struggled with form recently, having lost their last three home matches against Barcelona. Simeone was aware of the historical context, stating, "We need to break the cycle. We are playing for our season, and this match is more than just a game; it’s about pride and our legacy in the Copa del Rey."
Despite their efforts, Atlético could not convert their chances into goals. The home side had several opportunities, including a missed chance by Alexander Sørloth, who failed to capitalize on a clear-cut opportunity. Goalkeeper Juan Musso made a few critical saves, but it was not enough to keep Barcelona at bay.
The match was filled with intensity, with both teams exchanging blows. Atlético's Nahuel Molina received a yellow card for a dangerous challenge, while Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong also found himself booked as the referee, José Luis Munuera Montero, kept a close eye on the physicality of the game.
As the match progressed, Atlético pushed for an equalizer, but Barcelona's defense held firm, with Wojciech Szczesny making crucial interventions to deny the hosts any clear chances. The atmosphere in the Riyadh Air Metropolitano was electric, with fans on the edge of their seats as both teams battled for every inch of the pitch.
In the closing stages, Atlético ramped up their attack, desperately seeking a goal that would send the match into extra time. However, Barcelona remained resolute, showcasing their defensive prowess and tactical discipline. With every passing minute, the tension grew, and the visitors appeared more composed under pressure.
Ultimately, Barcelona's 1-0 victory secured their place in the final of the Copa del Rey, where they will face Real Madrid on April 26, 2025, at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Sevilla. This match will be a highly anticipated encounter, with both teams having a storied rivalry and a history of fierce competition.
Reflecting on the match, Ferran Torres expressed his delight, saying, "Every goal is special, but this one feels different. We are one step closer to a title, and we need to keep this momentum going into the final." Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid will need to regroup after this setback, as they now turn their focus to finishing strong in LaLiga, where they currently sit third.
The Copa del Rey semifinal showcased the best of Spanish football, with high stakes, intense rivalries, and a display of skill that kept fans engaged until the final whistle. As both teams look ahead, the road to the final promises to be filled with excitement and drama.
