By Victor Samson
Atletico Madrid delivered a stunning performance in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg, dismantling holders Barcelona 4-0 at the Metropolitano on Thursday night. The emphatic victory leaves Diego Simeone’s side with a commanding advantage heading into the return leg at Camp Nou on March 3, while Barcelona face a mountain to climb to salvage their campaign.
The contest began disastrously for Barcelona when Eric Garcia’s misplaced pass bobbled awkwardly on the uneven pitch and slipped under goalkeeper Joan Garcia’s foot. Ademola Lookman bundled the ball into the net, though the goal was officially recorded as Garcia’s own. That early setback rattled the visitors, and Atletico capitalized ruthlessly. Antoine Griezmann doubled the lead with a composed finish, exploiting Barca’s high defensive line.
Nigeria international Lookman, who has been central to Atletico’s attacking spark this season, added the third with a clinical strike at the end of a flowing team move. His goal epitomized Atletico’s sharpness and intensity, qualities often missing in their league and European outings. Julian Alvarez, ending an 11-match goal drought, smashed home the fourth before half-time, effectively sealing the tie.
Barcelona’s night went from bad to worse. Fermin Lopez struck the crossbar, Pau Cubarsi had a goal controversially ruled out for offside after a lengthy VAR review, and Eric Garcia compounded his misery with a late red card for a clumsy foul on Alex Baena. Ferran Torres’s poor pass had left Garcia exposed, highlighting the defensive frailties that plagued the Catalans throughout.
Simeone’s passion was evident as he sprinted down the touchline to celebrate Lookman’s strike. His demand for clinical finishing was finally met, with Atletico producing their most ruthless half of football this season. With La Liga and Champions League hopes fading, the Copa del Rey now represents Atletico’s best chance of silverware, and they seized the moment with ferocity.
Atletico’s 4-0 rout is not just a victory but a statement of intent. Barcelona, well off the pace and lacking composure, must deliver a near-miracle at Camp Nou to overturn the deficit. Meanwhile, in the other semi-final, Real Sociedad edged Athletic Bilbao 1-0, setting up a potentially dramatic final should Atletico maintain their dominance.
This result underscores the urgency of the title race in Spain’s domestic cup: Atletico are now firmly in control, while Barcelona’s hopes hang by a thread.
