Barcelona came within inches of pulling off the greatest comeback in Copa del Rey history. Trailing 4-0 after a disastrous first leg, Hansi Flick’s men dominated 70% of possession and scored three goals to set up a frantic finale, but Atletico Madrid’s legendary defensive grit—and a standout performance from goalkeeper Juan Musso—proved just enough to see the Rojiblancos through to the final.
The Game of Two Halves
Barcelona played with a “suicidal” high line that hemmed Atletico into their own box for nearly the entire 90 minutes.
- The Breakthrough: 18-year-old sensation Marc Bernal ignited the comeback, heading home a Lamine Yamal cross in the 30th minute.
- The Penalty: In first-half stoppage time, Pedri was brought down in the box. Raphinha stepped up and buried the penalty with the final kick of the half, making it 2-0 and leaving the aggregate score at 4-2.
- The Climax: In the 72nd minute, Marc Bernal volleyed home his second of the night from a João Cancelo delivery. At 3-0 (4-3 agg), the Camp Nou reached a fever pitch, but Atletico’s “wall” refused to crumble again.
Medical Room: Injury Blows for Barca
While the performance was inspiring, the cost was high for Barcelona.
- Jules Koundé: Forced off after just 11 minutes.
- Alejandro Balde: Subbed off in the 70th minute after replacing Koundé earlier.Both defenders are now major doubts for the Champions League quarter-finals later this month.
The Final Matchup
Atletico Madrid will face either Real Sociedad or Athletic Club in the final. This marks Atleti’s first appearance in the Copa del Rey final since their 2013 victory over Real Madrid.
| Team | Status | Outcome |
| Atletico Madrid | Qualified | 4-3 Aggregate Win |
| Barcelona | Eliminated | Defending Champions out in Semi-Final |
