Barca defeat Atletico to set up Clasico Copa del Rey final

Barcelona have booked their place in the Copa del Rey final, setting up a mouthwatering clash with arch-rivals Real Madrid after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. Ferran Torres’ clinical strike proved decisive at the Metropolitano Stadium, giving the Catalans a 5-4 aggregate triumph after an exhilarating first-leg encounter ended 4-4.

The win extends Barcelona’s impressive unbeaten run in 2025 to 21 games, underlining their dominance this season as they continue their quest for a remarkable quadruple. In stark contrast, Atletico Madrid’s campaign has taken a downward turn, with Diego Simeone’s side now left with little to play for in the remainder of the season. Atletico, who had defeated Barcelona before Christmas to temporarily lead La Liga, now trail Hansi Flick’s men by nine points with just nine games left.

First Half: Barcelona Take Control

Barcelona approached the match with authority, enjoying the better chances in the opening exchanges. Hansi Flick reintroduced Brazilian winger Raphinha to the starting lineup, and Atletico responded with an aggressive defensive approach. Veteran defender Cesar Azpilicueta was booked for a strong challenge on Raphinha, narrowly escaping a red card after a VAR review. Rodrigo de Paul also received a caution for a similarly robust tackle on the Brazilian.

While Raphinha was closely marked, it was teenage sensation Lamine Yamal who dictated the tempo from the opposite flank. The 17-year-old showcased his technical brilliance, setting up Jules Kounde with an audacious piece of skill. Kounde juggled the ball past Robin Le Normand before blasting his effort over the crossbar. Moments later, Yamal slipped a perfectly weighted pass to Torres, who kept his composure to slot home the only goal of the match and further justify his recent increase in playing time.

Barcelona continued to press for a second goal, with Yamal missing a golden opportunity when he mistimed his shot inside the box. Raphinha also came close, forcing Atletico’s goalkeeper Juan Musso into a sharp save at his near post.

Second Half: Atletico’s Fightback Falls Short

Simeone reacted to his team’s lackluster first-half display by making three changes at the interval, including the introduction of Alexander Sorloth. The Norwegian striker had enjoyed a prolific record against Barcelona this season, scoring three goals in their previous meetings. He nearly extended that streak early in the second half but dragged his effort wide despite Antoine Griezmann being unmarked and well-placed to finish.

Barcelona had chances to put the tie beyond doubt, with Raphinha again forcing a save from Musso, although he was later guilty of failing to square the ball to Fermin Lopez for what would have been a simple tap-in.

Sorloth thought he had equalized for Atletico when he slammed the ball into the net, but his celebrations were short-lived as the offside flag was raised. As Atletico began to build momentum, Flick introduced top scorer Robert Lewandowski for Torres. However, the Polish striker struggled to make an impact, with Barcelona focusing on game management in the latter stages.

Final Whistle: Barcelona Hold On

With Atletico pushing for a late equalizer, Musso even ventured forward for a stoppage-time free kick taken by De Paul, but Barcelona’s defense held firm to secure a place in the final. The victory not only strengthens their grip on domestic competitions but also provides another opportunity to claim silverware in a highly anticipated El Clásico showdown against Real Madrid.

For Atletico, the defeat marks the end of their Copa del Rey journey and a significant dent in their season ambitions. With La Liga slipping away, Simeone’s men will now need to regroup and find motivation for the remaining fixtures.

What’s Next?

Barcelona now turn their attention back to La Liga, where they will look to maintain their commanding lead and continue their unbeaten streak. Meanwhile, Atletico must quickly recover as they aim to secure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.

The Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams eager to add another trophy to their collection. With Barcelona in formidable form and Madrid seeking to avenge their recent losses, Spanish football fans are in for an electrifying conclusion to the season.

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