Atletico Madrid is set to host Barcelona this Wednesday in a highly anticipated Copa del Rey semifinal second leg. Following a thrilling 4-4 draw in the first leg in February, this match promises to be a decisive encounter.
Both Spanish giants are fiercely competing for a place in the Copa del Rey final, where they could potentially face Real Madrid. For Atletico, this competition represents their best opportunity to secure silverware this season, especially after being eliminated from the Champions League by Real Madrid and trailing Barcelona by nine points in La Liga.
Barcelona faces a demanding schedule, playing nine games in just 29 days. Despite recent victories against less challenging opponents, this match against Atletico, followed by Champions League quarterfinals against Borussia Dortmund, will be a true test of Barcelona`s title aspirations, particularly in a season where they have, at times, seemed to be playing without full intensity.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, April 2
- Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Metropolitano Stadium, Madrid, Spain
- Live stream: ESPN+
- Odds: Atletico Madrid +188; Draw +275; Barcelona +135
Previous Encounter
These teams recently met in La Liga, where Barcelona mounted a comeback to defeat Atletico Madrid 4-2. Atletico initially led 2-0 with goals from Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth, but Barcelona responded with a late surge, including goals from Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres (2), and Lamine Yamal, securing a vital league victory.
Atletico Madrid`s Perspective
There`s a strong sense that this game is crucial for Atletico, especially after their Champions League exit and La Liga struggles. However, manager Diego Simeone insists that their season should not be considered a failure regardless of Wednesday`s result.
Simeone stated, “Failure is not trying. For me, the season has been very good. We competed well in the Champions League, in La Liga, and reached the Copa del Rey semifinals.” He emphasized that winning a title would make it a “very good” or “extraordinary” season, but they have already performed commendably.
Simeone hopes his team will maintain their tactical approach but also play with optimism to achieve victory against Barcelona.
Barcelona`s Viewpoint
Barcelona, under Hansi Flick, faces a significant challenge against Atletico as they aim for a Copa del Rey title. Flick downplayed expectations in his pre-match press conference, acknowledging they have not yet achieved major success beyond the Spanish Supercopa.
Flick said, “We want to reach the final, but it won`t be easy. It might be the closest title available for us to win currently.” He recognizes the importance of this Copa del Rey run amidst a demanding La Liga season.
Flick praised Atletico and Diego Simeone`s tactical approach, acknowledging their intensity and speed of play, anticipating a difficult match.
Projected Starting Lineups
Atletico Madrid: Juan Musso, Marcos Llorente, Robin Le Normand, Clement Lenglet, Cesar Azpilicueta, Giuliano Simeone, Conor Gallagher, Pablo Barrios, Samuel Lino, Alexander Sorloth, Julian Alvarez
Barcelona: Wojciech Szczesny, Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi, Alejandro Balde, Eric García, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski
Player Spotlight
Lamine Yamal, Barcelona: In a potentially tight contest, Lamine Yamal could be the deciding factor. The 17-year-old has impressed with 13 goals and 16 assists this season, consistently performing in crucial games, including scoring against Real Madrid and Atletico. With support from Lewandowski and Raphinha, Yamal is emerging as a key player for Barcelona, and this semifinal is a perfect stage to further demonstrate his talent.
Key Match Storyline
Barcelona`s Pursuit of Trophies: Despite initial doubts, Barcelona is now a serious contender in La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Champions League. This semifinal is a crucial test of their ability to convert potential into tangible success. While still favored in La Liga and their Champions League tie, failing to capitalize on this Copa del Rey opportunity could raise questions about their trophy-winning mentality at a critical point in the season.
Match Prediction
Expect another close game, slightly favoring Barcelona. They possess the quality to edge out Atletico, particularly with returning players boosting their squad. Prediction: Atletico Madrid 2, Barcelona 3
