Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys is set to witness a thrilling encounter on Tuesday evening as Barcelona hosts Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey 2024/25 semi-final. With both sides vying for domestic and European success this season, this clash promises high stakes and intense competition.
Table of Contents
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid: Preview
Barcelona, the most decorated team in Copa del Rey history with 31 titles, seeks to end their trophy drought in the competition since the 2020-21 season. In contrast, Atletico Madrid, fourth in the all-time winners list with 10 triumphs, aims to capture the cup for the first time since 2013.
The Catalan giants enter the fixture riding a 13-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, highlighted by their recent 2-0 win against Las Palmas, keeping them top of La Liga. On the other hand, Atletico Madrid, just a point behind Barcelona in the league, showcased their attacking prowess with a commanding 3-0 victory over Valencia, extending their unbeaten run to eight matches.
Barcelona’s journey to the last four included dominant performances against Barbastro, Real Betis, and Valencia, amassing 14 goals along the way. Atletico Madrid, equally impressive, edged past their opponents with resilient displays, showcasing their defensive solidity and attacking efficiency.
Barcelona’s possession-based approach under Flick contrasts with Atletico’s compact, counter-attacking style. The midfield duel between Gavi and De Paul could dictate the game’s tempo. Up front, Robert Lewandowski’s goal threat will challenge Atletico’s defense, while Griezmann’s creativity and Alvarez’s finishing provide Madrid with potent offensive options.
Atletico’s 2-1 La Liga victory over Barcelona earlier this season broke a five-match losing streak against the Catalans. However, history favors Barcelona in this competition, with their last Copa del Rey semi-final meeting in 2016-17 ending in a 3-2 aggregate win for the Blaugrana. Remarkably, Atletico’s last triumph over Barcelona in the tournament dates back to April 2000.
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid: Head-to-head
- Total matches: 72
- Barcelona won: 36
- Atletico Madrid won: 19
- Draws: 17
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid: Team News and Predicted Lineup
Barcelona – Team News
Hansi Flick faces a mixed bag of news. Lamine Yamal, nursing a foot injury, is expected to feature despite concerns. Andreas Christensen returns to bolster the defense, though Marc Bernal and Marc-Andre ter Stegen remain sidelined.
Rotation is anticipated with key players like Dani Olmo, Gavi, Inigo Martinez, and Ronald Araujo potentially returning to the starting XI. Ferran Torres, despite his Copa del Rey heroics, may begin on the bench.
Barcelona – Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeper – Szczesny
- Defenders – Kounde, Araujo, Martinez, Balde
- Midfielders – Gavi, Pedri, Olmo
- Forwards – Raphinha, Yamal, Lewandowski
Atletico Madrid – Team News
Diego Simeone plans strategic adjustments. Juan Musso resumes his role as the cup goalkeeper, while Pablo Barrios returns from suspension. Koke remains doubtful, but Javi Galan and Jose Gimenez are poised to strengthen the backline.
Julian Alvarez, fresh off a brace against Valencia, is expected to spearhead the attack alongside Antoine Griezmann.
Atletico Madrid – Predicted Lineup (4-4-2)
- Goalkeper – Musso
- Defenders – Molina, Gimenez, Le Normand, Galan
- Midfielders – imeone, De Paul, Barrios, Lino
- Forwards – Griezmann, Alvarez
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid: Prediction
While Atletico aims to end a 25-year Copa del Rey drought against Barcelona, the hosts’ formidable form at home suggests a tightly contested affair. Both sides may prioritize caution given the looming second leg in April.
A low-scoring draw seems the most probable outcome, with neither team willing to concede an early advantage.
Prediction: Barcelona 1-1 Atletico Madrid
When and Where to Watch Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid Match? Broadcast and Streaming Details
The Copa del Rey 2024/25 semi-final match between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid will take place at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys in Barcelona, Spain. The match is set for February 26 at 2 am IST. It will be streamed online via FanCode.
Read More: Supreme Court Schedules Final Hearing on AIFF Constitution
FAQs
When and where is the Copa del Rey 2024/25 semi-final first leg between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid?
The first leg takes place on Tuesday at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona’s temporary home ground.
What is Barcelona’s recent form ahead of the semi-final?
Barcelona are on a 13-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, winning their last five games, including a 2-0 victory over Las Palmas.
How have Atletico Madrid performed recently?
Atletico Madrid are unbeaten in their last eight matches, coming off a 3-0 La Liga win against Valencia.
Who are the key players to watch in the Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid clash?
Robert Lewandowski leads Barcelona’s attack, while Atletico’s front line is spearheaded by Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez, who scored a brace against Valencia.
Where can fans in India watch the Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final live?
Fans in India can stream the Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid Copa del Rey semi-final live on FanCode.
