Atletico Madrid and Barcelona played out a Copa del Rey classic for the ages on Tuesday with the semifinal first leg ending 4-4. But the second half lived up to the billing with Alexander Soloroth rescuing the draw in the 93rd minute of play. The match was a roller coaster with Atletico Madrid going ahead by two goals only six minutes into the match before allowing four unanswered goals from Barcelona and then scoring two more goals of their own for the final result.

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Key Highlights

• A brace of assists from Raphinha alongside goals from each of Barcelona’s center backs was matched by Julian Alvarez’s goal and assist.
• Atletico Madrid’s wing backs Giuliano Simeone and Javi Galan struggled defensively against Barcelona’s attack.
• Diego Simeone’s substitutions, bringing on Soloroth and Angel Correa, were crucial in the comeback.

Raphinha’s Ballon D’Or Form

• Raphinha keeps pace with Mohamed Salah in the Ballon d’Or race, boasting 24 goals and 18 assists.

Defensive Flaws

• Barcelona’s high line was exploited by Atletico, raising concerns about goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny’s performance in light of Marc Andre ter Stegen’s injury.

What Next?

• Both teams will return to La Liga this weekend, with Barcelona facing Benfica on March 5 and Atletico Madrid hosting Real Madrid on March 4.