Atletico Madrid has reached its first Copa del Rey final since 2013, surviving a relentless Barcelona assault on Tuesday night to advance 4-3 on aggregate despite a 3-0 second-leg defeat at Camp Nou.
The Spanish champions withstood an inspired performance from 18-year-old Marc Bernal, who scored twice for Barcelona. Raphinha added a penalty as the hosts threw everything at overturning a 4-0 first-leg deficit from early February.
Diego Simeone’s side defended desperately through six minutes of stoppage time. Barcelona pushed forward with center-back Ronald Araujo deployed as an emergency striker in search of a fourth goal that would have forced extra time.
Barcelona’s youth movement sparks hope
Lamine Yamal ignited the comeback in the 30th minute, gliding past two defenders before drilling a low cross for Bernal to convert from close range. The assist marked another memorable moment for the 18-year-old winger.
Barcelona doubled its lead just before halftime when Marc Pubill fouled Pedri inside the box. Raphinha sent Musso the wrong way from the spot, giving the home side genuine hope.
Musso kept Atletico alive after the break with several critical saves. He denied Pedri, stopped Bernal from distance, and twice saved efforts from Yamal as Barcelona pressed for more.
ALSO READ:
- Botafogo make history with first Copa Libertadores triumph after beating Atlético Mineiro
- Atlético file case against Arsenal over lack of hot water at Emirate
- Osimhen wins Globe Soccer award
- Chelsea sign João Félix on loan from Atlético Madrid
The third goal arrived in the 72nd minute when Bernal volleyed home Joao Cancelo’s cross. Camp Nou erupted, sensing history, but Barcelona could not find the decisive fourth.
Final awaits in Seville
Atletico will face either Real Sociedad or Athletic Bilbao in the April 18 final at Seville’s La Cartuja stadium. Real Sociedad carries a 1-0 lead into Wednesday’s second leg against its Basque Country rivals.
The final is Atletico’s first Copa del Rey title shot in 13 years. The club last won the competition during the 2012-13 season under Simeone.
Antoine Griezmann’s participation remains uncertain amid transfer speculation linking the French forward with a move to MLS side Orlando City.
Barcelona now turns its attention to La Liga, where it leads Real Madrid by four points, and the Champions League last-16 tie against Newcastle.
