The first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals ended with a 4-4 draw between Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid and a narrow 0-1 victory for Real Madrid, with the goal scored by Brazilian youngster Endrick. The second leg will determine the two teams that will play at Estadio de La Cartuja (Seville) on April 26. The matches will take place on Tuesday, April 1 (Real Madrid vs. Real Sociedad at Santiago Bernabéu) and Wednesday, April 2 (Atlético de Madrid vs. Barcelona at Riyadh Air Metropolitano).
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Barcelona vs. Atlético de Madrid summary
The match between Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid delivered the best clash of the season so far. Eight goals in 90 minutes in a rollercoaster encounter filled with continuous emotions. Cholo Simeone’s side started like a steamroller, scoring twice in the first five minutes through Julián Álvarez and Griezmann.
Everything seemed to be going according to Atlético’s plan, but Barcelona refused to crumble and responded before halftime. The Blaugrana turned the score around with goals from Pedri, Cubarsí, and Íñigo Martínez, bringing instant joy to their fans.
Barcelona controlled the game, creating more chances than Atlético. In the second half, Robert Lewandowski’s introduction led to the fourth goal, seemingly knocking Atlético out, as Barça secured a two-goal lead and a favorable result for the second leg. However, Atlético reacted late in the game, equalizing with goals in the 84th and 93rd minutes from Marcos Llorente and Sørloth, respectively.
A spectacular match for the neutral spectator, full of goals and emotions, leaving an exciting second leg in this Copa del Rey.
Real Sociedad vs. Real Madrid summary
Meanwhile, Real Madrid capitalized on their strong form and achieved their objective at the Reale Arena with a 0-1 win over Real Sociedad. The match was more tactical, with Real Sociedad side controlling possession, but Madrid creating more dangerous attacks when entering the final third. Ancelotti made several rotations, including the introductions of Güler and Endrick. The Brazilian scored a stunning goal after receiving a great pass from Bellingham, controlling the ball perfectly and finishing with a shot that left Remiro helpless.
After the goal, Real Sociedad tried everything but ran into an outstanding Lunin. The Ukrainian goalkeeper delivered a sensational performance, making nine saves and denying the hosts multiple times. Bernabéu will decide the outcome, but with this strong result, Real Madrid seems to have a better chance of reaching the Copa del Rey final.
The schedule opens the doors for new Spanish football talents in the Copa del Rey
Both semifinals have showcased the intensity and competitiveness of the Copa del Rey, promising thrilling second-leg encounters. Real Madrid reaffirmed the importance of a strong academy, just like Barcelona. Cubarsí, Raúl Asencio, and Balde stood out in their respective matches, highlighting the commitment of Spain’s biggest clubs to young talents emerging from the country’s youth ranks.
In SIA Academy’s football trials program, players can aim to become part of professional football after a precise evaluation of their skills. Spanish football is in a continuous state of investment in new talents breaking through in the world’s most popular sport. Many young players are making giant leaps in just a few months, and this Copa del Rey is the best example of that. The need for squad rotations due to the tight schedule opens the door for young prospects to gain experience and accelerates their development.
