Barcelona Face Atlético Madrid in High-Stakes Copa del Rey Semifinal
Barcelona face Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinals as they chase a record 33rd title.
Shortest90- -February 6, 2026
Barcelona have been handed one of the most demanding possible opponents in the Copa del Rey semifinals after Friday’s draw paired them with Atlético Madrid. With a record-extending 33rd Copa del Rey title within reach, the Catalan side must once again overcome Diego Simeone’s disciplined and experienced team to reach the final.
The semifinal draw included Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, Athletic Club and Real Sociedad, following Real Madrid’s surprise elimination by second-tier Albacete earlier in the competition. While all three remaining opponents presented challenges, Atlético stand out as the most difficult on paper, given their consistency in knockout football and current position of third in La Liga.
Atlético are known for their compact defensive structure and ability to manage high-pressure matches, qualities that have made them one of the most respected sides in Spanish football over the past decade. For Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick, the tie represents a significant test of his team’s tactical maturity and mental strength.
Last Season’s Semifinal Adds Extra Edge to the Tie
This will not be the first time the two sides have met at this stage of the competition. Barcelona and Atlético faced each other in last season’s Copa del Rey semifinals in a dramatic and unpredictable encounter. The first leg ended in a remarkable 4–4 draw, before Barcelona edged a 1–0 victory in Madrid to secure their place in the final.
That tie remains fresh in the memory for both clubs. Atlético midfielder Marcos Llorente offered a measured response to the latest draw, saying the opponent made little difference. “All three teams were strong,” he said. “If you want to win, you have to eliminate two of them.” His comments reflect Atlético’s focused approach and their experience in dealing with high-stakes fixtures.
Barcelona will also draw confidence from their most recent meeting with Atlético in La Liga. In December, they produced a controlled comeback to win 3–1, with goals from Raphinha, Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres. The performance demonstrated balance and resilience, traits that will be vital across two tightly contested legs.
History and Pressure Surround a Two-Legged Battle
The Copa del Rey remains a competition closely associated with Barcelona’s success. The club have lifted the trophy 32 times, more than any other team in Spain, and another triumph would further extend their lead over Athletic Club, who have won it 24 times. Atlético Madrid have claimed the title on 10 occasions, while Real Sociedad are aiming for only their third.
The semifinal stage is the only round in the tournament played over two legs. The first leg will take place in the second week of February, with the return fixture scheduled for early March at Barcelona’s home ground. With no away-goals rule, consistency across both matches will be essential.
Both sides are expected to approach the tie cautiously. Atlético will aim to limit space and disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm, while Barcelona will look to control possession and dictate the tempo. Small details could decide the outcome.
For Barcelona, overcoming Atlético would not only secure a place in another final but also move them one step closer to reinforcing their dominance in Spain’s oldest competition.
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