“FC Barcelona progressed to the final of the Copa del Rey against Real Madrid after defeating Atletico Madrid 1-0 at the Metropolitano stadium on Wednesday. Ferran Torres finding the winner for a 5-4 aggregate victory in the semi-final encounter. FC Barcelona maintains their impressive 2025 unbeaten run, which is now up to 21 matches.
Domination and Copa del Rey Record of FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona, who have a record 31 Copa del Rey titles, ran riot in the game after the thrilling 4-4 draw in the first leg.
The loss leaves Atletico Madrid with few goals for the rest of the season. Atletico Madrid now trail FC Barcelona by nine points in La Liga with nine games remaining.
Ferran Torres on FC Barcelona Reaching the Final
“We can’t relax, we have to keep believing and working, with humility and I’m sure good things will come,” Torres told Movistar. “If a final is already a huge motivation, imagine playing against your most direct rival.”
Real Madrid booked their ticket to the final with a 5-4 aggregate win over Real Sociedad. Real Madrid played out a 4-4 tie at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday.
Tactical Struggle: Raphinha and Yamal Impress
FC Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick restored Raphinha to the starting squad. The Brazilian winger was made a target by Atletico’s defensive strategy.
Cesar Azpilicueta was booked for a challenge on Raphinha, weathering a VAR check for a possible red card. While Rodrigo de Paul was also cautioned for off-the-ball tackle.
Seventeen-year-old Lamine Yamal impressed on the other wing, opening up space and assisting Torres’s goal with an excellent weighted pass.
Atletico’s Second-Half Push Falls Short
Atletico Madrid brought on Alexander Sorloth in the second half. Alexandar Sorloth the man who scored in all three of their meetings this season.
Sorloth later missed an easy chance early in the second half when he shot instead of playing a pass to unmarked Antoine Griezmann.
The Norwegian striker was later denied a goal through offside as Atletico put more pressure on Barcelona’s defense.
Hansi Flick Praises Fighting Spirit of FC Barcelona
“We played really bravely here, it was not easy, especially in the second half,” Flick told Barca One. “(The job) is not done, we’re fighting, we’re trying everything to win titles and we’re in a good way, the team is doing great.”
Atletico’s Trophy Hopes Crushed and Response to Defeat
FC Barcelona held on for four minutes of stoppage time, even after Atletico goalkeeper Juan Musso came forward to attack for a late free-kick.
The win ends Atletico’s best hope of winning a trophy this season, after their Champions League elimination by Real Madrid in the round of 16.
“We have to thank the fans who supported us, we’re as sad as them,” said Atletico defender Jose Gimenez.
