Barça Match: Atlético Madrid vs. Barcelona – A Copa del Rey Clash in Madrid
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as Barcelona and Atlético Madrid face off in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal this Thursday at 9:00 PM (local time) at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium. This Barça match promises a captivating battle between two Spanish giants, each with significant motivation to advance to the final.
The Stakes are High
Atlético Madrid are eager to break a 13-year title drought, while Barcelona aim to defend their Copa del Rey crown and secure their impressive 33rd trophy in the competition. The pressure is on for both sides to deliver a strong performance in this crucial first leg.
Recent Form
Atlético Madrid showcased their attacking prowess with a dominant 5-0 victory over Real Betis in the quarterfinals. However, they stumbled in their most recent La Liga fixture, suffering a 1-0 defeat against the same opponent. Barcelona, on the other hand, secured a comfortable 2-1 win against Albacete in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals and followed it up with a convincing 3-0 victory over Mallorca at the Spotify Camp Nou in La Liga. This Barça match will be a true test of their current form.
Team News & Lineups
Diego Simeone will have to navigate some absences, with Pablo Barrios, Johnny Cardoso, and Nicolás González unavailable for selection. Hansi Flick’s Barcelona are facing a more significant injury crisis, missing key players like Andreas Christensen, Pablo Gavi, Pedri, Raphinha Dias, and Rashford, who withdrew late due to a knee injury sustained against Mallorca.
Predicted Lineups:
- Atlético Madrid (4-4-2): Oblak; Marcos Llorente, Pubill, Hancko, Ruggeri; Giuliano Simeone, Rodrigo Mendoza, Koke, Baena; Lookman and Julián Álvarez.
- FC Barcelona (4-2-3-1): Juan García; Koundé, Cubarsí, Eric Garcia, Balde; De Jong, Bernal; Lamine Yamal, Fermín, Dani Olmo; and Lewandowski.
How to Watch
Football fans in Spain can catch the Barça match live on television via 3Cat, La 1 (TVE), and RTVE Play. For those preferring live updates, ARA will provide minute-by-minute coverage. This is a game you won’t want to miss!
Match Officials
Juan Martínez Munuera (Valencian Committee) will be the main referee, with Pablo González Fuertes (Asturian Committee) overseeing the VAR. Expect a closely monitored match with a focus on fair play.
The clash between Madrid and Catalonia is poised to be a captivating spectacle. Stay tuned for all the action from the Riyadh Air Metropolitano!
For more information on La Liga and Copa del Rey, visit La Liga Official Website.
