Barcelona takes on Atletico Madrid today, February 25, 2025, at the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium for the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals. This highly anticipated clash showcases two Spanish football powerhouses vying for the first stepping stone toward the coveted cup, which Barcelona has historically dominated, with 31 titles to their name.
Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET (9:30 p.m. CET) and will be broadcast exclusively via ESPN Plus, which offers subscriptions for $11.99 per month or $119.99 annually. Fans expect to see thrilling football as both teams strive to keep their treble hopes alive, competing not only for the Copa del Rey but also being active contenders for the La Liga title and the Champions League.
Barcelona's recent form has been stellar, as they sit atop the La Liga table with 54 points, one point clear of Atletico Madrid, who currently has 53 points. The Catalans remain unbeaten across their last 13 matches, including five straight victories leading up to this semifinal. They have advanced to this stage of the tournament by defeating Barbastro, Real Betis, and Valencia.
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid enters the match on the back of their own impressive run, with their latest victory coming against Valencia just two days ago, securing them a dominant 3-0 win. They are also on a solid unbeaten streak of eight matches, under the guidance of manager Diego Simeone, whose tactics will be pivotal against Barcelona, especially after Atletico prevailed 2-1 against them back in December, snapping their five-match losing streak against the Blaugrana.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has assembled nearly a full-strength squad for this clash, though he will have to cope without veteran goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen and defender Andreas Christensen, both dealing with injuries. Flick has opted for Wojciech Szczesny to guard the net, supported by defenders Jules Koundé, Iñigo Martínez, and Alejandro Balde. “The team is motivated and focused on our objectives,” said Flick during the pre-match press conference.
Key players to look out for during the match include Robert Lewandowski, who has been incredibly prolific this season, leading La Liga with 20 goals and contributing significantly to Barcelona’s scoring efforts with nine goals already logged in the Champions League. The 36-year-old striker is one of few players who can boast over 700 career goals for club and country and isn't expected to slow down anytime soon, making him someone Atletico's defense must keep their eyes on.
On the other hand, Atletico will rely heavily on Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez to spearhead their attack. Griezmann has proven his worth time and time again against Barcelona and currently has formed impressive partnerships with Alvarez, who is also coming off strong performances, scoring recently against Valencia.
Projected lineups indicate Barcelona will likely deploy a 4-3-3 formation, with Szczesny; Koundé, Martínez, and Balde at the back; and Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal filling midfield roles. Up front, Dani Olmo will complement Lewandowski’s mission to break through the Atletico defense.
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid is expected to field Musso; Gimenez, Llorente, and Galan; De Paul, Barrios, and Gallagher; with Griezmann paired with Alvarez at the top. With Koke sidelined due to injury, Simeone's squad will need every bit of firepower to overcome Barcelona.
The stakes are high not just for the Copa del Rey but also due to the impending fixtures for both clubs, with considerable pressure to maintain their respective positions in La Liga and their Champions League aspirations. The looming second leg scheduled for April adds another layer of intensity to this semifinal matchup.
Expert predictions are already swirling, with many analysts favoring Barcelona due to their remarkable form, but Atletico Madrid's ability to disrupt and counter will make this match one to watch. Eimer, SportsLine’s football expert, points out, “This is where tactical acumen can really shine. Both managers will need to weigh their starting lineups carefully, considering their players’ fitness and fatigue.”
With this first leg serving as not just another cup match but as part of fierce sporting rivalry, football fans worldwide will be ready to tune in for what promises to be an exhilarating encounter. Today's match provides the perfect backdrop for two traditionally dominant clubs battling for supremacy and glory.
Whether you're supporting Barcelona or Atletico Madrid, the buildup to this match is only rivaled by its expected intensity on the field. Let the best team win!