Barcelona and Atletico Madrid kicked off their Copa del Rey semi-final with one of the most thrilling matches seen this season, ending the first leg with a sensational 4-4 tie at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on February 25, 2025.
The match began with electric energy, as the visiting Atletico Madrid took the lead only seconds after the first whistle. Julián Álvarez scored the opening goal for Atletico within just one minute, capitalizing on the Barcelona defense's lapse. Antoine Griezmann quickly followed up with another goal just five minutes later, sending the home crowd to silence with the score at 0-2.
Things looked dire for Barcelona early on. But under the jurisdiction of their new coach Hansi Flick, the Catalan side displayed remarkable resilience. They responded fiercely, first through Pedri, who tucked home after connecting with Jules Koundé’s clever back pass, igniting hopes for the home fans. Pau Cubarsí quickly followed with another equalizing goal just three minutes later, and before the break, Iñigo Martínez added the third, sending Barcelona fans roaring with excitement.
The half ended with Barcelona leading 3-2, but the second half promised more drama. Robert Lewandowski added to Barcelona's tally with his goal at the 74th minute, making it 4-2, and sending the home crowd to cloud nine. Many thought Barcelona had now secured the advantage as the time wound down.
But Atletico Madrid was far from finished. Marcos Llorente struck back just ten minutes after Lewandowski's goal, sending the visitors back to contention at 4-3. The atmosphere grew heavier as tensions mounted on both sides.
With only minutes remaining, the drama peaked. Atletico pressed hard against the Barcelona defense, and just when it seemed it wasn’t enough for the visitors, Alexander Sorloth emerged as their savior. His last-minute equalizer at the 90+3 minute mark capped off a stunning comeback for Atletico, tying the match 4-4.
Post-match, emotions ran high. Diego Simeone reflected on the match's rollercoaster nature: "Hubo varios partidos en uno. Empezamos con 15 minutos increíbles, pero tenemos varios errores a pelota parada que tenemos que mejorar," he stated. His remarks emphasized both the positives and areas needing improvement for his team moving forward.
Pedri from Barcelona echoed the sentiment, saying, "Es verdad que no es el peor resultado, cuando te pones 4-2... hay que aprender de estas cosas. No podemos tirar tanto la línea, y tener más la pelota". The talented midfielder recognized the intensity of the match and the lessons learned from their dropped lead.
Both teams displayed their mettle throughout the match. Barcelona dominated possession and exhibited established attacking prowess, sparked by players like Pedri and Lewandowski. Atletico, led by the relentless spirit of Griezmann and Álvarez, made spectacular counter-attacks, proving their status as one of Europe’s elite teams.
With the tie set, all eyes are on the second leg at Atletico's Metropolitano Stadium on April 2, 2025. The anticipation builds as both sides aim for precious advancement to the Copa del Rey final, promising to provide more heart-stopping football as they battle for supremacy.