Barcelona and Atlético Madrid Thrill in Eight-Goal Copa del Rey Semifinal Draw

In dramatic Copa del Rey semifinal 1st leg Barcelona and Atletico Madrid played out thrilling 4 - 4 draw at the Montjuïc Stadium on Tuesday night. The match saw both teams take turns leading before Atletico Madrid struck late to secure draw ahead of the return leg at the Metropolitano on 2 April.

Fast Start for Atlético Madrid

The visitors shocked barcelona early with Julian Alvarez scoring just 47 second into the match. The Argentine's quick goal put him at the top of the competition's scoring charts with 5 goal. Moments later Antoine Griezmann doubled the lead in the 6 minute.

According to Opta, this marked the 4th time under Diego Simeone that Atletico scored twice within the 1st 6 minute of match, the first since August 2017 against Las Palmas.

Barcelona's Comeback and Late Collapse

Despite the early setback Barcelona fought back with Pedri pulling one back in the 19 minute before Pau Cubarsí equalized 2 minute later. By halftime Barcelona led 3 - 2 courtesy of header from Iñigo Martínez in the 41 minute.

The Catalan side extended their lead in the 74 minute, as Robert Lewandowski found the net from Lamine Yamal assist, seemingly putting them in control at 4 - 2.

Atletico refused to give up. Marcos Llorente pulled one back in the 84 minute, before Alexander Sørloth completed the comeback deep into stoppage time 90+3 ensuring the tie remains wide open.

Flick Frustrated After Barcelona's Late Collapse

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick expressed his frustration at his team's inability to hold onto their lead: "I'm disappointed with the result We played great football, created lot of chances but in the end we conceded too many opportunities."

Flick also highlighted defensive lapses, particularly Atletico’s 4th goal and vowed to address the team’s issues before the return leg: "We defended well for 75 minute and then we failed. The 4th goal we conceded seemed incredible to me. We'll have to talk about it."

What’s Next?

The return leg at the Metropolitano on April 2 promises another exciting clash with both teams still in contention for spot in the final. Meanwhile, Barcelona will shift focus back to La Liga where they face Real Sociedad on Sunday.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.