The match began with Atlético Madrid seizing control early, as they scored two quick goals. Julián Álvarez opened the scoring with a quick strike, capitalizing on a defensive mistake, followed by Antoine Griezmann doubling the lead shortly after, leaving Barcelona in a 0-2 hole within the first six minutes.
Despite the early shock, Barcelona showed resilience. Pedri started the comeback with a well-placed shot, and young defender Pau Cubarsí headed in the equalizer from a corner to make it 2-2 before halftime.
In the second half, Barcelona kept pressing forward. Veteran defender Iñigo Martínez put them ahead with a powerful header from a set-piece, and Robert Lewandowski extended their lead to 4-2, seemingly putting the game out of Atlético’s reach.
However, Atlético Madrid, under the determined leadership of Diego Simeone, refused to back down. Marcos Llorente pulled one back, and in stoppage time, substitute Alexander Sorloth completed the dramatic comeback, scoring to level the game at 4-4, much to the dismay of Barcelona supporters.
After the match, Barcelona fans focused their criticism on head coach Hansi Flick, specifically his late substitutions, most notably the decision to take Pedri off the field. Many believe this change disrupted the team’s flow and contributed to the collapse.
Flick, visibly frustrated in the post-match press conference, acknowledged the team’s defensive mistakes. He expressed disappointment over losing their two-goal lead and stressed the need for better game management moving forward.
Meanwhile, Diego Simeone praised his team’s resilience, highlighting their determination and belief in the face of adversity. He also commended the impact of his substitutes in turning the game around.
With the tie now evenly poised, the second leg at the Estadio Metropolitano promises to be an exciting and highly competitive encounter, with both teams showing offensive flair but defensive weaknesses. The battle for a spot in the Copa del Rey final is set to continue.
