Atletico Edge Barcelona to Book Copa del Rey Final Spot

Atlético Madrid secured a place in the Copa del Rey final after a tense semi-final clash against FC Barcelona, advancing 4-3 on aggregate despite a spirited performance from the Catalan side.

Barcelona entered the decisive leg needing a big result to overturn the deficit, and they started brightly in front of their home supporters.

The hosts struck early through Marc Bernal, who found the net after being set up by Lamine Yamal. The quick opener lifted the tempo of the contest and gave Barcelona renewed belief in a comeback.

Before the break, the home side doubled their lead from the penalty spot. Raphinha calmly converted after Pedri was brought down in the area, reducing the aggregate deficit and keeping hopes alive. Despite the strong first-half showing, Barcelona still trailed 4-2 on aggregate at halftime, leaving them with a steep task in the second period.

After the restart, Barcelona continued to press forward in search of more goals. Bernal grabbed his second of the night, finishing off a well-delivered cross from João Cancelo to make it 3-0 on the evening. The goal further narrowed the aggregate margin and set up a tense finale.

Atletico Hold Firm Under Pressure

However, Atlético Madrid showed resilience and defensive discipline as the match wore on. Diego Simeone’s side absorbed sustained pressure, closing down spaces and blocking several attempts on goal to prevent Barcelona from finding the decisive fourth strike that would have levelled the tie overall.

Despite dominating large stretches of the second half, Barcelona were unable to breach Atlético’s defence again. The visitors managed the closing stages carefully, slowing the tempo and frustrating the hosts’ attacking rhythm.

With the aggregate scoreline finishing 4-3 in Atlético’s favour, the Madrid side progressed to the final of the Copa del Rey, scheduled for April.

Atlético will now face either Real Sociedad or Athletic Bilbao in the final, as they aim to add another domestic trophy to their honours.

See also: Lookman in line for Atletico debut as Copa del Rey quarterfinal tension builds