FC Barcelona and Atletico Madrid faced off on February 25, 2025, in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals, resulting in a dramatic 4-4 draw. The match, which took place at the Estadio Olímpico Lluís Companys, was filled with excitement and showcased the talents of both teams.
The game got off to a lightning start as Atletico Madrid struck early, with Julián Álvarez scoring just 46 seconds after kickoff. His strike was followed by another from Antoine Griezmann merely five minutes later, putting the visiting team up 2-0. This rapid start boosted the spirits of Atletico’s away supporters and set the tone for what would be a thrilling encounter.
Fortunately for Barcelona fans, their team responded quickly. At the 19-minute mark, Pedri found the net after receiving a perfectly timed pass from Lamine Yamal. Just two minutes later, Pau Kvarsch headed home from a Rafinha corner, leveling the score at 2-2. The momentum continued to shift as Iñigo Martínez put Barcelona in the lead with another goal before halftime, ending the first half with Barcelona up 3-2.
Barcelona kept the pressure on after halftime and extended their lead to 4-2 when Robert Lewandowski, who had come on as a substitute, scored at the 74-minute mark. Yet, the match’s intensity was far from over. Atletico demonstrated their resilience with Marcos Llorente scoring with mere minutes left, bringing the score to 4-3.
Just as the game seemed set to end with Barcelona claiming victory, Alexander Sørloth scored another equalizer for Atletico Madrid at the 90+3 minute mark, sealing the match at 4-4. This late drama not only meant the teams would head to the second leg with everything to play for but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of the Copa del Rey.
With the aggregate score settled at 3-2, the second leg is scheduled for April 2, 2025, with Atletico hosting Barcelona. Both teams are gearing up for what promises to be another thrilling clash, as they fight for a place in the finals of this prestigious tournament.
Barcelona's Hansi Flick has praised the talent and determination shown by his players throughout the contest, stating, “We showed great character to come back from early setbacks and take the lead, but it’s important to remain focused until the final whistle.”
Atletico’s coach, Diego Simeone, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “Our team never gives up. We kept pushing until the end, and it paid off. The players showed resilience, and I’m proud of their fighting spirit.”
This Copa del Rey semifinal has proven to be not just about football, but about the stories these players are creating on the pitch - bringing together rich histories and dynamic plays. Fans from both sides are aware of how significant the next leg will be, as each team looks to secure their spot in the final.
The exhilarating battles between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are far from over, as they are now set to staging yet another chapter of their heated rivalry. This match has reminded fans of the unpredictability and excitement of football, ensuring all eyes will be on the next leg.