By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
Barcelona’s spirited 3–0 victory over Atlético Madrid in the second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final was not enough to overturn a heavy first-leg deficit, as Atletico advanced 4–3 on aggregate to reach the final for the first time since 2013.
Playing at the Spotify Camp Nou on Tuesday night, Barcelona dominated the second encounter, with teenage midfielder Marc Bernal scoring twice and Raphinha converting a penalty to complete the 3–0 turnaround on the night.
However, Atletico’s commanding 4–0 win at the Metropolitano in the first leg proved decisive, allowing them to hold on to a 4–3 aggregate advantage and book their spot in the final.
Barcelona needed at least four goals on the night to force extra time and keep their hopes alive of defending their Copa del Rey title, but fell just short despite sustained pressure and a barrage of chances.
The Blaugrana came out strongly, dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, but Atletico’s resilient defence and key saves helped preserve their slender aggregate lead until the final whistle.
After the match, Barcelona captain Raphinha praised his team’s effort and performance but acknowledged the disappointment of elimination, while remaining optimistic about the remainder of the season.
Atletico Madrid will now face either Real Sociedad or Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final, with the other semi-final still to be decided.