By Noble Atsu
Atlético Madrid produced a stunning performance to dismantle FC Barcelona 4–0 in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.
Coached by Diego Simeone, Atlético dominated the opening half, racing into a four-goal lead before the break. Their relentless pressing, high tempo, and incisive transitions left Barcelona overwhelmed during a decisive 45 minutes that effectively settled the contest.
At the heart of Atlético’s superiority was Ademola Lookman, whose pace, confidence, and sharp link-up play repeatedly exposed Barcelona’s back line. His movement and delivery were central to the hosts’ first-half surge.
Former Barça forward Antoine Griezmann struck in the 14th minute with a composed finish against his old club, while Julián Álvarez added another in first-half stoppage time to give Atlético an unassailable cushion at halftime.
Barcelona attempted to rally after the interval but found openings hard to come by against Atlético’s disciplined defensive block. A goal initially credited to Pau Cubarsí was later ruled out following a lengthy VAR review for offside, compounding the visitors’ frustration. Matters worsened late on when Eric García was sent off in the 85th minute after a challenge on Álvaro Baena.
Trailing by four goals, Barcelona face a daunting task in the return leg at Spotify Camp Nou on March 3. Atlético, meanwhile, have taken a giant step toward the final and will approach the second leg brimming with confidence.
