Atletico Madrid will host Barcelona on Wednesday in what is expected to be a competitive conclusion to the Copa del Rey semifinals, especially after a dramatic first leg in February that ended in a 4-4 draw.
Both teams will be aiming for a spot in the final later this month, where they will face Real Madrid. The competition presents Atletico with perhaps their only realistic chance at winning a title this season, despite impressive performances at various times during the campaign. They were eliminated from the UEFA Champions League by Real Madrid in the round of 16 and seem out of the title race in La Liga, sitting nine points behind first-place Barcelona.
For Barcelona, this match marks the latest challenge during a grueling schedule, with Hansi Flick’s management leading the charge as they push for multiple trophies.
How to Watch Atletico vs. Barcelona, Odds
- Date: Wednesday, April 2
- Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Metropolitano Stadium, Madrid, Spain
- Live Stream: ESPN+
- Odds: Atletico Madrid +188; Draw +275; Barcelona +135
Last Encounter
In league play last month, Barcelona came from behind to win 4-2 against Atletico Madrid. Diego Simeone’s squad initially led 2-0, but Barcelona’s late surge turned the tide.
Coach Insights
Diego Simeone has shown confidence in his team’s potential, stating that the season remains strong regardless of the outcomes. He emphasizes that failure comes from not trying, insisting on playing joyfully against formidable opponents like Barcelona.
Hansi Flick acknowledges the difficulty of the challenge ahead and reinforces the importance of maintaining focus amidst the pressure of competing for trophies.
Predicted Lineups
- Atletico Madrid: Juan Musso, Marcos Llorente, Robin Le Normand, Clement Lenglet, Cesar Azpilicueta, Giuliano Simeone, Conor Gallagher, Pablo Barrios, Samuel Lino, Alexander Sorloth, Julian Alvarez
- Barcelona: Wojciech Szczesny, Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi, Alejandro Balde, Eric García, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski
Player to Watch
Lamine Yamal, Barcelona is emerging as a key player this season, already notching impressive statistics with 13 goals and 16 assists across competitions. His performance will be crucial in this competitive semifinal.
Prediction
Expect a hard-fought game leaning slightly towards Barcelona. The visiting team appears poised to win against a talented Atletico squad. Prediction: Atletico Madrid 2, Barcelona 3
To catch all the exciting action, tune into the CBS Sports Golazo Network.
