Barcelona and Atletico Madrid fought to a dramatic 4-4 draw during the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals held on February 25, 2025, at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. This thrilling encounter highlighted the fierce competition between two of La Liga's giants, setting the stage for what promises to be a high-stakes return leg on April 2, 2025.
The match kicked off with incredible intensity, as Atletico Madrid stormed to the front with two early goals. Just one minute after the whistle, Antoine Griezmann delivered a teasing cross for Julian Alvarez, who capitalized on the opportunity to score the opening goal. Shortly after, Alvarez turned provider as he set up Griezmann, whose powerful shot left Barcelona's goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny with no chance, doubling Atletico's lead within the first six minutes of play.
Barcelona, renowned for their resilience, began their comeback attempt around the 19th minute when Pedri skillfully slotted home from Jules Kounde's cutback, breathing life back onto the pitch. Within two minutes, the Catalan giants equalized as Pau Cubarsi nodded home from Raphinha's corner, making it 2-2.
With their momentum building, Barcelona surged forward, and before the halftime whistle, Iñigo Martínez scored from another corner, putting his team 3-2 up. The first half underscored Barcelona's ability to bounce back from adversity, demonstrating their tactical prowess when under pressure.
Despite controlling much of the first half, Barcelona faced challenges immediately after the break. Atletico Madrid nearly leveled the match when Griezmann's shot was saved magnificently by Szczesny. For Barcelona, Ferran Torres squandered several chances, including a one-on-one opportunity against Atletico's goalkeeper Juan Musso, indicating the high stakes and pressure the match entailed.
Substitute Alexander Sorloth, who had previously haunted Barcelona with his performance during La Liga, seemed poised to equalize for Atletico, but his goal was ruled offside. Just when it appeared Barcelona had solidified their dominance with yet another goal, Lamine Yamal—a standout throughout the match—showcased his talent. The 17-year-old winger deftly maneuvered through the Atletico defense before laying off the perfect assist for substitute Robert Lewandowski, who tapped it home from close range, extending Barcelona’s lead to 4-2.
But the drama didn't end there. Atletico Madrid, known for their fighting spirit, struck back with Marcos Llorente scoring the third goal for the visitors with just six minutes to go, sending ripples of tension throughout the stadium. Then, deep within stoppage time, Sorloth made his presence count again, finding the net to complete his side's comeback and sealing the match with a final score of 4-4.
The game would be remembered as not only a thrilling encounter but also as one filled with emotion as both teams displayed their commitment to reaching the Copa del Rey final. Reflecting on the match, AFP reported, "the superb Pedri Gonzalez pulled one back with Pau Cubarsi, Iñigo Martinez and Robert Lewandowski going on to score for the Catalan giants." Their efforts are foundational to Barcelona's formidable reputation.
Similarly, Atletico's determination was exemplified all throughout the match, with Sorloth's late equalizer echoing their never-say-die attitude. After the match, the excitement was palpable, with anticipation growing for the return match at the Metropolitano and the significance of the Copa del Rey title looming large for both clubs.
With both teams now knowing they have the capability to overcome the other, the upcoming second leg promises to be just as, if not more, thrilling than this incredible first installment. The stage is perfectly set for another memorable clash between these two storied rivals—Barcelona and Atletico Madrid—who remain two of the most formidable teams not only in Spain but across Europe.