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Barcelona to Host Atlético Madrid in Copa del Rey Semifinal Second Leg

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Copa del Rey Semifinals: Barcelona vs. Atlético Madrid - Second Leg Preview

Barcelona is scheduled to face Atlético Madrid in the highly anticipated second leg of the 2025-26 Copa del Rey semifinals on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at their home ground, Camp Nou. The Catalan giants are in a challenging position, needing to overcome a significant four-goal deficit from the first leg. Atlético Madrid currently holds a commanding 4-0 lead, setting the stage for a demanding comeback attempt for Barcelona, who will also contend with several key player absences.

Atlético Madrid holds a 4-0 lead from the first leg, placing Barcelona with a four-goal deficit to overcome.

Match Information

The crucial encounter will unfold at Camp Nou in Barcelona, Spain.

  • Kick-off Times:
    • 9pm CET/WAT
    • 8pm GMT
    • 3pm ET
    • 12pm PT
    • 1.30am IST (Wednesday)
  • Referee: Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea
  • VAR: Daniel Jesús Trujillo Suárez

Team Status and Absences

Barcelona will be significantly impacted by several absentees for the second leg.

  • Suspension: Central defender Eric García is suspended after receiving a red card in the first leg.
  • Injuries:
    • Andreas Christensen (defense)
    • Frenkie de Jong (midfield)
    • Robert Lewandowski (forward), who sustained a fractured eye socket.
  • Fitness: Midfielder Gavi has returned to training after a six-month recovery period but is not deemed ready for full match participation.

Atlético Madrid will be without Pablo Barrios for the fixture.

Recent Form

Barcelona's recent five-match form shows two wins and three losses (WLLWW).
Atlético Madrid arrives with three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five outings (LDWWW).

Barcelona's Impressive Home Performance

Despite their overall form, Barcelona boasts an formidable record at Camp Nou, having secured 10 consecutive victories in their last 10 home matches since November. This strong home performance will be a crucial factor as they attempt their comeback.

Barcelona has recorded 10 consecutive victories in their last 10 matches at Camp Nou since November.

Anticipated Lineups

Barcelona (4-2-3-1):

  • Goalkeeper: Joan García
  • Defenders: Jules Koundé (RB), Pau Cubarsí (CB), Gerard Martín (CB), Alejandro Balde (LB)
  • Midfielders: Dani Olmo (DM), Pedri (DM)
  • Forwards: Lamine Yamal (RW), Fermín López (AM), Raphinha (LW), Ferran Torres (ST)

Due to player absences, Gerard Martín is anticipated to step into central defense alongside Pau Cubarsí. Dani Olmo is projected to start in midfield with Pedri, and Ferran Torres is expected to lead the attack.

Atlético Madrid (4-4-2):

  • Musso; Llorente, Pubill, Hancko, Ruggeri; Simeone, Koke, Johnny, Lookman; Griezmann, Alvarez.