Atletico Madrid is set to host Barcelona on Wednesday in what is expected to be a competitive conclusion to the Copa del Rey semifinals after a dramatic first leg in February ended in a 4-4 draw.
Both teams are vying for a spot in the final later this month, where they will face Real Madrid. For Atletico, this competition presents perhaps their only realistic chance at winning a title this season, despite their impressive performances at different points in the campaign. On the other hand, Barcelona will face a major test of their title-winning capabilities during a busy period that includes the Copa del Rey semifinals and the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals.
Here’s what you need to know before the match:
How to watch Atletico vs. Barcelona, odds
Date: Wednesday, April 2 | Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
Location: Metropolitano Stadium — Madrid, Spain
Live stream: ESPN+
Odds: Atletico Madrid +188; Draw +275; Barcelona +135
Last meeting
Barcelona came from behind to win 4-2 at Atletico Madrid in their last league encounter. Diego Simeone’s side had a 2-0 lead before Barcelona’s late surge secured a crucial win in La Liga’s title race.
What Atletico Madrid are saying
Diego Simeone believes the season has been positive for Atletico despite recent setbacks. He emphasizes the importance of trying and staying true to their tactical principles against Barcelona.
What Barcelona are saying
Hansi Flick acknowledges the tough test ahead against Atletico and downplays the expectations of winning major titles. He praises Atletico’s style of play and anticipates a difficult match.
Predicted lineups
Atletico Madrid: Juan Musso, Marcos Llorente, Robin Le Normand, Clement Lenglet, Cesar Azpilicueta, Giuliano Simeone, Conor Gallagher, Pablo Barrios, Samuel Lino, Alexander Sorloth, Julian Alvarez
Barcelona: Wojciech Szczesny, Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi, Alejandro Balde, Eric García, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski
Player to watch
Lamine Yamal, Barcelona: The 17-year-old has been a standout player for Barcelona this season, contributing significantly in crucial matches. His performance against Atletico will be key in determining the outcome of the match.
Está rápidamente convirtiéndose en la estrella del espectáculo para el equipo de Flick, y no habrá mejor momento para demostrarlo que en una semifinal de vital importancia. La caza de trofeos del Barcelona: Las esperanzas pueden no haber sido altas para el Barcelona después de otra temporada caótica, pero con las últimas semanas de la temporada acercándose, se sienten como verdaderos contendientes en La Liga, la Copa del Rey y la Liga de Campeones. Depende de ellos no quedarse con las manos vacías y la semifinal del miércoles ofrece un primer vistazo real a su capacidad para cruzar la línea de meta. Please rewrite the text you provided for me.