Barcelona vs Atlético Madrid: Copa del Rey Semi-Final Preview
A thrilling Copa del Rey semi-final first leg awaits as Barcelona hosts Atlético Madrid at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. This crucial knockout match promises intense action between two Spanish football powerhouses.
Match Details and Essential Information
• Competition: Copa del Rey Semi-Finals, 1st Leg (2024-25)
• Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025
• Kickoff: 9:30 PM CET
• Venue: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Montjuïc, Barcelona
• Official: Alejandro Hernández Hernández (Referee)
Team Updates:
– Barcelona Missing: ter Stegen, Bernal
– Doubtful: Christensen, Yamal
– Atlético Concerns: Azpilicueta, Koke
Barcelona enters this clash seeking redemption after their devastating last-minute loss to Atlético in late 2024. Despite dominating that encounter, they fell to Alexander Sorloth’s 96th-minute winner. The Catalans, fresh from a vital Las Palmas victory, aim to maintain their momentum in this cup competition.
Diego Simeone’s side arrives in remarkable form, suffering just one defeat in four months. The lethal partnership of Julián Álvarez and Antoine Griezmann has been particularly impressive, posing a significant threat to Barcelona’s defense.
Key Tactical Points:
1. Barcelona’s creative midfield trio will be crucial
2. Atlético’s compact defensive structure must be breached
3. Set-pieces could prove decisive
4. Counter-attacking opportunities will be vital
Expected Formations:
Barcelona (4-2-3-1):
Szczesny; Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsí, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski
Atlético Madrid (4-4-2):
Musso; Llorente, Giménez, Le Normand, Galán; Simeone, De Paul, Barrios, Lino; Griezmann, Álvarez
Broadcast Information:
• TV: Startimes World Football (Nigeria), TVE La 1 (Spain)
• Streaming: ESPN+ (USA), FanCode (India)
This semi-final promises intense physicality and tactical chess between Hansi Flick and Diego Simeone. While Barcelona holds a slight advantage playing at home, Atlético’s recent form suggests a closely contested battle.
The tie remains perfectly poised for an exciting 180 minutes of football, with both sides knowing the importance of a strong first-leg performance.
Ready for an unforgettable night of Spanish football? Don’t miss this crucial Copa del Rey semi-final clash! Kickoff at 9:30 PM CET.
Book your tickets now or tune in to catch every moment of this heavyweight encounter!
