Atletico Madrid produced a devastating first-half display to thrash La Liga leaders Barcelona in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final, seizing firm control of the tie before halftime.
Diego Simeone’s side struck four times in the opening 45 minutes, gaining revenge for last season’s defeat to Barcelona at the same stage.
Defensive Error Sets The Tone
The breakthrough came from a costly mistake. Eric Garcia’s backpass slipped under goalkeeper Joan Garcia’s foot and rolled into the net, gifting Atletico an early lead.
The hosts doubled their advantage in the 14th minute when Antoine Griezmann curled a superb effort past his former club. Barcelona struggled to respond as Atletico intensified the pressure with relentless attacking play.
First-Half Rout Stuns Barcelona
Atletico made it 3-0 in the 33rd minute after Giuliano Simeone burst down the right flank and found Julian Alvarez, who squared the ball for Ademola Lookman to finish for his second goal in three games.
Alvarez then ended an 11-match goal drought stretching back two months by firing home a powerful strike in first-half stoppage time to cap a stunning opening period.
Barcelona’s Frustration Deepens
Barcelona believed they had pulled one back in the second half when Pau Cubarsi finished after being set up by Robert Lewandowski. However, the goal was ruled out for offside following a lengthy VAR review.
Eric Garcia’s difficult night worsened late on when he was shown a red card after a VAR check for a foul on Alex Baena, leaving Barcelona further depleted.
Second Leg Looms Large
The heavy defeat leaves Barcelona facing a daunting task ahead of the return leg on March 3, with Atletico carrying a commanding advantage into the second leg.
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