Atlético Madrid secured a place in the Copa del Rey final despite suffering a 3-0 defeat to FC Barcelona in the second leg of their semifinal clash. Diego Simeone’s side progressed 4-3 on aggregate thanks to their commanding 4-0 first-leg victory in Madrid last month.
The result marks Atlético’s first appearance in the Spanish cup final since the 2012-13 campaign when they lifted the trophy. Although Barcelona dominated large phases of the return fixture at home, the deficit from the opening leg proved too heavy to overturn.
Barcelona began aggressively and found the breakthrough in the 29th minute through Marc Bernal. Raphinha converted from the penalty spot in first-half stoppage time to boost hopes of a comeback. Bernal struck again in the 72nd minute, bringing the Catalan club within a single goal of leveling the tie on aggregate.
Despite sustained pressure in the closing stages, Atlético’s defensive resilience ensured their passage to the final. Goalkeeper Juan Musso and the back line absorbed waves of attacks to preserve the overall advantage across the two legs.
Barcelona were hampered by injuries, with Jules Koundé forced off early and Robert Lewandowski unavailable for selection. The reigning champions were aiming to defend their title after last season’s triumph over Real Madrid, but their cup journey ends at the semifinal stage.
Atlético will now await the winner of the other semifinal between Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao, with the final scheduled to take place in Seville in April. Both Atlético and Barcelona remain active in domestic league competition and the UEFA Champions League round of 16 as the season intensifies.