Barcelona and Atletico Madrid faced off on February 25, 2025, at the Olympic Stadium, delivering one of the most thrilling matches of the Copa del Rey semi-finals, finishing with both teams locked at 4-4. This encounter was marked by early drama, fierce competition, and impressive goals from both sides, illustrating why this matchup is always highly anticipated.
The match kicked off with Atletico Madrid making their intentions clear, taking advantage of Barcelona's initial slumber. Within the first minute, Julian Alvarez found the back of the net with a sharp finish from close range. Just five minutes later, Antoine Griezmann added to the early tally, showcasing Atletico's aggressive start and putting Barcelona on the back foot.
Despite the rocky start, Barcelona responded with resilience. They leveled the score shortly afterward, with Pedri González scoring the first goal for the hosts, capitalizing on a well-placed cross. Just moments later, Pau Kobarcy struck to equalize, turning the tide for Barcelona and igniting the home crowd's excitement.
Before the first half concluded, the veteran Iñigo Martínez scored again for Barcelona, edging them 3-2 at halftime, much to the delight of their fans. The energy and atmosphere within the stadium escalated, with supporters confident of their team's ability to secure victory. The first half ended with Barcelona having established control after their late first-half rally.
Things didn't slow down after the break. Barcelona continued to assert their dominance, and Robert Lewandowski scored their fourth goal, seemingly putting the game within their grasp. His precise shot found the net after some slick buildup play from the Catalans, causing the tension around the pitch to build even more.
But Atletico was not done yet. They ramped up their pressure, pulling one back thanks to Marcos Llorente's thunderous strike from distance, trimming Barcelona's lead down to 4-3 and stirring hopes of another comeback. The dynamic of the game shifted again, as both sides sought to secure their spot in the final.
The most dramatic moment came deep in stoppage time. Alexander Sørloth, who had been brought on as a substitute, managed to score what would be the equalizer for Atletico with just seconds left on the clock, securing the draw and preserving their chances for the return leg. His late goal silenced the home fans and brought joy to the visiting supporters, cementing the draw as one of the most dramatic finishes seen at this level.
With the final whistle blown and the match ending at 4-4, the two teams left the pitch with everything to play for in the reverse fixture. The return leg will take place at Atletico's home ground, Wanda Metropolitano, on April 2, 2025. Whoever emerges successful will face the winner of the other semi-final between Real Madrid and Real Sociedad.
This draw sets the stage for what promises to be another epic encounter on April 2, where both teams will vie for advancement to the final and for the chance to lift the coveted Copa del Rey trophy.
Fans are already buzzing about the next match, eagerly awaiting the return of this fierce rivalry. The collective will of both clubs to make it to the final adds even more intensity to the rivalry and the stakes involved. With both clubs having proven their mettle this season, the second leg promises to be just as thrilling as the first.