In a pulsating first-leg clash of the Copa del Rey semi-finals, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona played out a stunning 4-4 draw on Tuesday. A dramatic late goal from Alexander Sorloth ensured the spoils were shared, leaving the tie finely poised ahead of the return fixture in April.
The match began at a breathtaking pace, with Julian Alvarez putting the visitors ahead after just 50 seconds. Barcelona were left reeling when former player Antoine Griezmann doubled Atletico’s lead within the opening six minutes. However, the hosts swiftly responded, clawing their way back into the contest through Pedri’s composed finish and a Pau Cubarsi header, leveling the score inside the first 20 minutes.
Barcelona then completed their first-half turnaround when Inigo Martinez nodded home, giving Hansi Flick’s team a 3-2 advantage at the break. After the restart, Robert Lewandowski extended the lead, seemingly putting the Catalan side in control. Yet, Atletico refused to bow out, with Marcos Llorente pulling one back before Sorloth struck in stoppage time to ensure the enthralling encounter ended in deadlock.
Early Atletico blitz countered by Barcelona fightback
La Liga’s most potent attack met its most stubborn defense in a contest that lived up to expectations. Atletico Madrid made a dream start, catching Barcelona off guard when Alvarez met a cross at the back post to stun the home crowd. The early momentum remained with Diego Simeone’s men as Griezmann finished coolly past Wojciech Szczesny to double the lead in the sixth minute.
Barcelona, initially rattled, regained composure and began to dominate possession. Their pressure paid off when Jules Kounde’s cutback found Pedri. Just two minutes later, a Raphinha corner was met by Cubarsi, his header drawing Barcelona level and setting the stage for a thrilling contest.
Before halftime, the home side completed their turnaround. Martinez rose highest to nod in from a set-piece, putting Barcelona ahead for the first time in the match.
Late drama as Atletico snatch draw
After the break, Barcelona looked to solidify their advantage, and Lewandowski made an immediate impact after coming off the bench. The Polish striker capitalized on a brilliant run from Yamal down the right flank, finishing clinically to put the hosts 4-2 ahead.
Despite falling behind, Atletico Madrid refused to give in. Llorente reignited their hopes with a well-taken goal late in the game, setting up a tense finale. Deep into stoppage time, Samuel Lino found space behind the defense and squared the ball to Sorloth, who made no mistake in converting the crucial equalizer.
With both teams showcasing their attacking prowess, the thrilling draw leaves everything to play for in the second leg, promising another gripping encounter as they vie for a place in the Copa del Rey final.
