Copa del Rey: Lookman And Atletico Withstand Late Barca Rally To Progress

 Copa del Rey: Lookman And Atletico Withstand Late Barca Rally To Progress

By Our Reporter 

Atlético Madrid survived a spirited comeback attempt from FC Barcelona to secure a place in the Copa del Rey final, progressing 4–3 on aggregate after a dramatic semi-final second leg, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Trailing 4–0 from the first leg, Barcelona mounted a determined response at Spotify Camp Nou but ultimately fell short, relinquishing their grip on a competition they have won a record 32 times.

Two goals from 18-year-old Marc Bernal, either side of a Raphinha penalty, gave the hosts genuine hope of an unlikely turnaround. However, despite sustained late pressure, Hansi Flick’s side were unable to find the decisive fourth goal that would have forced extra time.

Atletico, managed by Diego Simeone, showed resilience under pressure and will now face the winner of the other semi-final between Real Sociedad and Athletic Club in the final.

Barcelona began with urgency, pressing high and denying Atletico time to settle. Raphinha threatened early, firing into the side netting, while Ferran Torres and Alejandro Balde — introduced early following an injury to Jules Kounde — both tested goalkeeper Juan Musso.

The breakthrough arrived in the 29th minute following impressive work from teenage winger Lamine Yamal. His delivery from the left found Bernal unmarked in the area, and the midfielder calmly converted to ignite belief among the home supporters.

Atletico posed a threat of their own, with Antoine Griezmann striking the post before being flagged offside, while Nigeria international Ademola Lookman narrowly missed a presentable opportunity.

Barcelona’s momentum continued into stoppage time when Pedri was brought down inside the area by Clement Lenglet. Raphinha stepped up to convert the resulting penalty, sending Musso the wrong way to make it 2–0 on the night.

After the break, Atletico sought to steady themselves, with Julian Alvarez forcing a save from goalkeeper Joan Garcia. Bernal, however, remained central to Barcelona’s charge and completed his brace with 18 minutes remaining, turning in Joao Cancelo’s cross for his fourth goal in as many matches.

Substitute Marcus Rashford was introduced as Barcelona chased a dramatic finale, but despite relentless pressure, the decisive goal proved elusive. Gerard Martin came closest with a curling effort that drifted just over the crossbar.

Atletico ultimately held firm to seal their aggregate victory, ending Barcelona’s hopes of defending their title and setting up a chance to lift the Copa del Rey trophy later this season.