**Thrilling 4-4 Copa del Rey Classic Sets Stage for Epic Second Leg** *Atlético Madrid and Barcelona trade blows in a chaotic first-leg draw.*
Match Overview
In a rollercoaster Copa del Rey semifinal first leg, **Atlético Madrid** and **Barcelona** played out a mesmerizing **4-4 draw** at the Estadi Olímpic.
Both teams squandered two-goal leads in a game riddled with drama, comebacks, and late twists, leaving the tie wide open ahead of the return leg in April.
Barcelona extended their unbeaten streak to **14 games**, but Atlético’s stoppage-time equalizer ensured neither side holds a psychological edge.
Key Moments
- **1’**: Julián Álvarez stuns Barça early, tapping in after Clément Lenglet’s knockdown.
- **6’**: Antoine Griezmann doubles Atlético’s lead with a clinical finish, assisted by Álvarez.
- **19’**: Pedri pulls one back for Barça, slotting home from Jules Koundé’s cutback.
- **21’**: Pau Cubarsí heads in Raphinha’s corner to level the score.
- **60’**: Nahuel Molina restores Atlético’s lead with a composed finish.
- **68’**: Robert Lewandowski enters the fray and makes an instant impact, tapping in Lamine Yamal’s assist.
- **84’**: Marcos Llorente rifles in Ángel Correa’s pass to set up a grandstand finish.
- **90+3’**: Alexander Sørloth breaks Barça hearts, nodding in Sergio Lino’s cross to seal a 4-4 draw.
Talking Points
1. **Defensive Frailties Exposed**: Both teams struggled defensively, with high lines and sloppy marking punished repeatedly. Barcelona’s set-piece vulnerability resurfaced, while Atlético’s midfield turnovers invited pressure.
2. **Griezmann’s Masterclass**: The Frenchman tormented his former club, contributing a goal and an assist while orchestrating Atlético’s attacks.
3. **Super Subs Shine**: Lewandowski’s introduction changed the game, but Yamal (17) also dazzled with his dribbling and creativity.
4. **Controversy & Drama**: A disallowed Sørloth goal (68’) and a denied penalty claim for Yamal added to the chaos.
Looking Ahead
The second leg at the **Metropolitano on April 10** promises fireworks, but these rivals won’t wait long to renew hostilities. They meet again in **LaLiga on March 17**, a clash that could reshape the title race. For now, Barcelona’s unbeaten run hangs in the balance, while Atlético’s resilience ensures they remain alive in both competitions.
*One thing is certain: this rivalry still delivers unforgettable spectacles.
**Stat of the Night**:
Antoine Griezmann (Atlético Madrid) – A goal, an assist, and relentless creativity.
8 goals, 4 lead changes, and 3 assists for Raphinha – pure chaos encapsulated.