Barcelona faced Atletico Madrid on February 26 for the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final, culminating in an astounding 4-4 draw, which saw both teams showcasing their offensive skills but also exposing defensive vulnerabilities.
The match kicked off with immediate action, as Atletico Madrid took the lead right out of the gate. Just one minute in, Julian Alvarez scored, followed shortly by Antoine Griezmann, who put the visitors up 2-0 within the first six minutes. It was a shocking start for Barcelona, placing them on the back foot.
But the home side showed resilience. Barcelona quickly regrouped, and Pedri netted their first goal by converting a cross from Jules Kounde in the 19th minute. The momentum shifted as Barcelona began to dominate possession and opportunities, leading to two identical goals from corner kicks. Pau Cubarsí scored from Raphina's corner just two minutes after Pedri's strike, and Iñigo Martínez added another just before half-time, bringing the score to 3-2 at the break.
Coming out strong after halftime, Barcelona extended their lead to 4-2 with Robert Lewandowski scoring from close range after impressive work by Lamine Yamal. Hansi Flick's team appeared to have the match under control as they dominated for the majority of the game.
Yet, as the match approached its final phases, the tide turned dramatically. Atletico Madrid showed their tenacity, with Marcos Llorente pulling one back with just six minutes to go. Barcelona's defense faltered at key moments, and Llorente capitalized, taking the score to 4-3.
With the minutes ticking away and Barcelona seemingly on course for victory, Alexander Sorloth delivered the final blow for Atletico. After Yamal's failed pass, Sorloth tapped home the equalizer during stoppage time, sealing the match at 4-4. The draw was exhilarating for spectators but disappointing for Flick and Barcelona, who let victory slip away.
Post-match, Hansi Flick expressed his frustration, highlighting the unacceptable nature of conceding four goals. "I have warned the players not to concede any chances. I'm disappointed with the result...but it was all in vain because in the last few minutes we let them back...you can’t concede four goals against us," he stated to reporters. Flick acknowledged the young team's potential, noting the importance of learning from their mistakes.
Atletico's Diego Simeone praised his team's fighting spirit, emphasizing their ability to come back under pressure. By salvaging the draw, Atletico not only secured their position but also showcased character against one of Spain's strongest sides.
This thrilling clash marked the first time since 1997 these teams had seen eight goals scored between them in any competition. Now, with the second leg approaching on April 2, both squads will be eager to adjust their strategies after this chaotic first encounter. While Barcelona remains unbeaten against Atletico Madrid in seven Copa del Rey matchups, their vulnerability showed, setting the stage for what could be another thrilling showdown.