The Copa del Rey semi-finals are set to deliver an electrifying showdown as Barcelona host Atletico Madrid in the first leg at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Tuesday, February 25. Both sides are eyeing silverware this season, and this fixture provides a perfect opportunity to gain an advantage ahead of the second leg.
While Culers are known for their dominance in possession and attacking flair, Atletico Madrid boast one of the best defensive records in Spanish football. Their contrasting styles will add to the drama in what promises to be a thrilling contest.
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid: Match Details
- Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2025
- Kick-Off Time: 23:30 EAT (20:30 GMT)
- Venue: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona
- Referee: Alejandro Hernández Hernández
- VAR Official: Daniel Trujillo Suárez
- How to Watch: Premier Sports 2 (UK), ESPN+ (USA)
Recent Form and Head-to-Head Record
Culers enter this match on a solid run of form, having won their last five matches across all competitions. Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, have shown resilience, with four wins and a draw in their last five games.
Last Five Meetings Between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid
- 21 December 2024: Barcelona 1-2 Atletico Madrid (La Liga)
- 08 October 2023: Atletico Madrid 0-1 Barcelona (La Liga)
- 23 April 2023: Barcelona 1-0 Atletico Madrid (La Liga)
- 08 January 2023: Atletico Madrid 0-1 Barcelona (La Liga)
- 06 February 2022: Barcelona 4-2 Atletico Madrid (La Liga)
Barcelona have won four of the last five encounters, but Atletico’s 2-1 victory in December 2024 was a statement win that proved they can hurt the Catalan giants.
Barcelona Team News & Expected Lineup
Culers have a few injury concerns, with young star Lamine Yamal facing a late fitness test after sustaining a foot injury in their last game. However, Andreas Christensen is expected to return, boosting the defense.
Barcelona Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczęsny
- Defenders: Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Iñigo Martínez, Alejandro Balde
- Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong, Pedri
- Attackers: Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Raphinha
- Striker: Robert Lewandowski
Atletico Madrid Team News & Expected Lineup
Diego Simeone has used Juan Musso as his goalkeeper in the Copa del Rey and is likely to keep faith in him over Jan Oblak. Meanwhile, Pablo Barrios is set to return after serving a suspension.
Atletico Madrid Predicted Starting XI (4-4-2)
- Goalkeeper: Juan Musso
- Defenders: Nahuel Molina, José Giménez, Robin Le Normand, Javi Galán
- Midfielders: Giuliano Simeone, Rodrigo De Paul, Pablo Barrios, Samuel Lino
- Forwards: Antoine Griezmann, Julian Álvarez
Tactical Battle & Key Players to Watch
This match will be a fascinating duel between Culer’s attacking philosophy and Atletico Madrid’s defensive discipline.
Key Players for Barcelona
- Robert Lewandowski – The Polish striker remains Culer’s biggest goal threat and will be looking to add to his tally against Atletico’s solid backline.
- Pedri – The midfield maestro will be crucial in breaking down Atletico’s defensive wall and controlling possession.
- Lamine Yamal – If fit, the teenage sensation could provide the X-factor with his pace and dribbling.
Key Players for Atletico Madrid
- Antoine Griezmann – The Frenchman is Atletico’s most potent attacking weapon and has the ability to change the game with his creativity and finishing.
- Rodrigo De Paul – His work rate in midfield will be crucial in stopping Barcelona from dominating possession.
- José Giménez – A defensive leader who will need to be at his best to contain Lewandowski and company.
Match Prediction: Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid
With Culers playing at home, they are expected to dominate possession and create more chances. However, Atletico Madrid thrive in these situations, sitting deep and hitting on the counter.
Culers will push for a lead, but Atletico’s defensive structure and counter-attacking prowess could frustrate them. Expect a tight, low-scoring affair, setting up an exciting second leg in Madrid.
Predicted Score: Barcelona 1-1 Atletico Madrid
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