Atletico Madrid booked their place in the final of the Copa del Rey for the first time since the 2012-13 season despite a spirited second-leg comeback from FC Barcelona that ultimately fell just short.
Carrying a commanding 4-0 advantage from the first leg, Atletico endured intense pressure at the Camp Nou before losing 3-0 on the night, progressing 4-3 on aggregate.
Barcelona began the match with urgency as they attempted to overturn the heavy deficit, dominating possession and pinning Atletico deep inside their own half. However, the hosts suffered an early setback after defender Jules Kounde was forced off injured after just 11 minutes.
Despite controlling around 70 per cent of possession, Barcelona struggled initially to convert their territorial dominance into clear chances, while Atletico remained compact and disciplined defensively. Even forward Antoine Griezmann was frequently seen dropping deep to assist his teammates.
Griezmann also produced Atletico’s first attempt on target midway through the half, but goalkeeper Joan Garcia was well-positioned to deny the former Barcelona forward.
The breakthrough finally arrived when youngster Marc Bernal headed home from a cross delivered by Lamine Yamal, igniting hope among the home supporters.
Barcelona continued to press forward but were constantly wary of Atletico’s counterattacking threat, with Ademola Lookman going close with a diving header that could have ended the tie.
Just before half-time Barcelona doubled their lead after Pedri won a penalty in stoppage time. Raphinha stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to give the hosts renewed belief.
Atletico began the second half with greater intent, but Barcelona soon regained control and pushed forward relentlessly. Goalkeeper Juan Musso produced a superb double save to prevent the Catalans from moving within one goal of levelling the aggregate score.
Atletico manager Diego Simeone responded by introducing striker Alexander Sorloth in an attempt to stretch Barcelona’s defence, though the visitors spent long periods under sustained pressure.
Barcelona’s momentum was briefly disrupted when substitute Alejandro Balde, who had earlier replaced Kounde, was forced off with injury.
The hosts eventually added a third goal from a set piece when Bernal volleyed home his second of the evening from a precise delivery by Joao Cancelo.
Barcelona threw everything forward in the closing stages, committing multiple players into attack, but Atletico’s defence held firm to secure their place in the final.
The result means Barcelona will not have the opportunity to defend the Copa del Rey title they won last season, while Atletico now await the winner of the other semi-final between Real Sociedad and Athletic Club.
