### Thrilling Copa del Rey Semi-Final: Barcelona and Atletico Madrid Share the Spoils in 4-4 Draw In a captivating first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals, FC Barcelona and Atletico Madrid played to a dramatic 4-4 draw at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. The match was characterized by a series of comebacks, with both teams exchanging leads in a high-octane encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Atletico Madrid initially surged ahead with two quick goals, only to see Barcelona respond with four unanswered strikes before Atletico equalized in the dying moments of the match. This thrilling contest sets the stage for an exciting second leg, where both teams will vie for a place in the final. ### Breakdown of the Match Dynamics 1. **Early Dominance by Atletico Madrid** - Atletico Madrid took an early lead with goals from Julian Alvarez and Antoine Griezmann within the first six minutes of the match, showcasing their attacking prowess [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/atletico-stage-two-goal-comeback-hold-barcelona-4-4-draw-cup-thriller-4960216]. 2. **Barcelona's Resilient Comeback** - Barcelona responded with a flurry of goals, leveling the match by the 21st minute through strikes from Pedri and Pau Cubarsí, and later taking a 3-2 lead at halftime with Iñigo Martínez's goal [https://www.latestly.com/agency-news/sports-news-barcelona-and-atletico-madrid-draw-4-4-in-thrilling-1st-leg-of-copa-del-rey-semifinals-6670644.html]. 3. **Second Half Action** - The second half saw Robert Lewandowski extend Barcelona's lead to 4-2 in the 74th minute, but Atletico Madrid's determination shone through as they scored twice in the final ten minutes, including a last-minute equalizer from Alexander Sorloth [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/3277893-thrilling-comeback-barcelona-and-atleticos-4-4-copa-del-rey-semifinal-clash]. 4. **Managerial Insights** - Atletico Madrid's manager, Diego Simeone, expressed his delight at the team's resilience, emphasizing their fighting spirit in overcoming a two-goal deficit [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/simeone-thrilled-atleticos-resilience-4-4-thriller-barcelona-4960371]. ### Key Match Statistics - **Goals Scored**: 8 (Barcelona 4 - 4 Atletico Madrid) - **Key Players**: - Barcelona: Pedri, Pau Cubarsí, Iñigo Martínez, Robert Lewandowski - Atletico Madrid: Julian Alvarez, Antoine Griezmann, Alexander Sorloth - **Match Location**: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona - **Date**: February 26, 2025 [https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/feb/25/european-football-barcelona-and-atletico-in-eight-goal-semi-final-thriller]. ### Conclusion: A Match for the Ages The 4-4 draw between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg was a testament to the thrilling nature of football, characterized by dramatic comebacks and relentless attacking play. 1. **Early Goals**: Atletico's quick start set the tone for an unpredictable match. 2. **Barcelona's Fightback**: The Catalans showcased their attacking depth, momentarily taking control. 3. **Late Drama**: Atletico's late equalizer ensured that the tie remains wide open for the second leg. As both teams prepare for the return leg, fans can expect another electrifying encounter as they battle for a coveted spot in the Copa del Rey final [https://www.news9live.com/sports/football/copa-del-rey-sorloths-late-goal-rescues-atletico-in-thrilling-4-4-draw-vs-barcelona-2828264].