FC Barcelona and Atletico Madrid clashed on February 25, 2025, at the Estadio Olímpico Lluís Companys for the semifinals of the Copa del Rey, resulting in a thrilling 4-4 draw. This match highlighted the intensity and unpredictability of knockout football, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying second leg.
From the outset, Atletico Madrid shocked Barcelona’s fans, finding the back of the net within just 30 seconds. Antoine Griezmann’s deft assist to Julian Alvarez led to the first goal, leaving Barcelona’s Wojciech Szczęsny no opportunity to react. Barely five minutes later, the visitors struck again. Following the quickest of corner kicks, Griezmann again facilitated Alvarez's second goal, doubling Atletico’s lead to 2-0 before Barcelona had even settled.
Despite the early setback, Barcelona responded with impressive resilience. Under the guidance of their coach Hansi Flick, the team quickly regrouped. The attacking trio of Pedri, Pau Cubarsi, and Dani Olmo played pivotal roles. By the 42nd minute, Barcelona had remarkably turned the match around, netting three goals. Pedri scored first, followed by Cubarsi, whose well-placed shot rattled the net. Marcelo Llorente's latest intervention was too late to prevent the equalization.
Barcelona continued to press after halftime, with Robert Lewandowski entering the field as a substitute at the 68-minute mark. Six minutes later, the Polish striker demonstrated why he is one of the best forwards in Europe, scoring to put his team back on top at 4-2. The enthusiasm at the stadium was palpable as Barcelona seemed to be en route to victory.
Yet, the match had more twists to offer. Atletico managed to claw back, with Llorente scoring from close range, narrowing the deficit to 4-3. Just when it appeared Barcelona would secure the win, Alexander Sorloth found the net deep in stoppage time, sealing the score at 4-4. This dramatic conclusion left fans from both sides buzzing with excitement for the second leg.
Wojciech Szczęsny's performance drew mixed reviews; he conceded four goals but made several key saves throughout the match, keeping Barcelona afloat during dire moments. The Polish international was pivotal, exemplifying resilience even as he was criticized for the goals allowed. "Szczęsny was nearly pulled off the pitch after conceding four goals, yet he made key saves," reported Eurosport.
For Atletico, Griezmann and Alvarez shone brightly. Their initial performance set the tempo for Atletico Madrid, making it clear they came to play. "Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez were key players for Atletico Madrid, both scoring early," noted Eurosport. Their presence promises to be just as impactful when the teams meet again.
After the match, the buildup to the second leg, scheduled for April 2, became even more intense. Both teams will be eyeing the cup final with substantial determination. Barcelona has not lost any match for over two months prior to this game and will come up stronger, whereas Atletico will look to capitalize on their early momentum from the initial tie.
This Copa del Rey semifinal is shaping up to be one of the most captivating encounters of the season, with both teams packed with talent, ambition, and the will to win. Fans are advised to closely follow game strategies and lineup changes heading toward the decisive rematch. The aggregate fight begins anew, aiming to see who advances to meet either Real Madrid or Real Sociedad in the final.