FC Barcelona has officially learned its Copa del Rey semi-finals opponents, setting up a thrilling and high-stakes clash.
Barcelona’s Copa del Rey journey intensifies as the Blaugrana uncover their semi-final adversaries, setting the stage for high-stakes drama in Spain’s premier cup competition.
The defending champions, riding a wave of quarter-final dominance, now face a defining two-legged showdown that could cement their status as favourites for another La Cartuja triumph.
With Hansi Flick balancing a congested schedule across La Liga and Europe, this draw sharpens focus on squad rotation and tactical nous.
The opponents are Atletico Madrid, Diego Simeone’s resilient warriors who edged past Real Betis in the quarters, guaranteeing a rematch of last season’s pulsating semi-final thriller, as per the official RFEF post.
The first leg kicks off at Riyadh Air Metropolitano during the week of February 11, followed by the return at Spotify Camp Nou on March 4.
Should Barcelona advance, they’ll meet the victor of Real Sociedad versus Athletic Club in the April 18/19 final, pitting Basque intensity against Catalan flair.
Barça stormed into the semis with authoritative victories over Guadalajara, Racing Santander, and Albacete, proving depth even without injured stars like Pedri.
Atletico’s 5-0 demolition of Betis highlights their knockout ruthlessness, though La Liga inconsistencies offer Barcelona an edge—having triumphed in four of the last six clashes.
Simeone’s compact defence will test Flick’s high press, especially with Raphinha’s return timeline aligning perfectly.
Injuries to key midfielders demand youth integration, as seen with recent La Masia call-ups ahead of Mallorca.
This tie evokes last year’s 5-4 aggregate epic, blending Lamine Yamal’s wizardry against Atleti’s famed resolve.
For Barcelona, securing the Copa amid a treble chase underscores dynasty-building—failure isn’t an option against a side hungry to end a 13-year trophy drought.
The semi-finals’ two-legged format rewards endurance, where Camp Nou’s roar could prove decisive. Culers anticipate fireworks, blending nostalgia with ambition in Flick’s project.
Victory here paves the path to history—what a platform to showcase Barcelona’s resurgence.
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