Copa del Rey Semi-Finals: Barcelona, Atletico & Basque Derby Clash

‎This year’s Copa del Rey final four features some of Spain’s most historic clubs, with Barcelona set to face Atletico Madrid, while Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao lock horns in a classic Basque derby.

‎Barcelona Aim to Defend Copa del Rey Title

‎Barcelona booked their place in the semi-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Albacete in the quarter-finals. Under Hansi Flick, the Catalan giants are enjoying a season of balancing domestic and European ambitions.

‎Having lifted the Spanish Super Cup earlier this year, Barcelona is already off to a strong start and remains active in three major competitions, La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey.

‎Currently at the top of La Liga, one point clear of Real Madrid, the team is in fine form and looking to add another trophy to its collection.

‎With a rich history in the competition, Barcelona is the most successful side in Copa del Rey history, boasting 32 titles. Last year, they triumphed over Real Madrid in a thrilling 3-2 final, and the Catalans will be keen to replicate that success this season.

‎Atletico Madrid secured their semi-final berth with a resounding win over Real Betis, showing the same grit and tactical discipline that has defined Diego Simeone’s tenure at the club.

‎Atletico are 10-time winners of the Copa del Rey and have consistently posed a tough challenge for Barcelona in knockout competitions.

‎The first leg of this semi-final will be staged at Madrid, giving Atletico a home advantage, before the return leg at Camp Nou early next month.

‎Basque Derby Semi-Final

‎The other semi-final provides a spectacle of a different kind, a Basque derby. Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao are fierce regional rivals, and this clash promises intensity, pride, and passion.

‎Real Sociedad earned their place in the semi-finals with a 3-2 victory over Alaves, highlighting their attacking potential.

‎Athletic Bilbao progressed with a 2-1 win over Valencia, demonstrating the club’s traditional defensive solidity and counter-attacking efficiency.

‎Both sides have a proud history in the Copa del Rey. Athletic Bilbao are 24-time winners, second only to Barcelona, while Real Sociedad have lifted the trophy twice.

‎The winner of this semi-final will face either Barcelona or Atletico Madrid in the final, setting up a potentially historic showdown.

‎What’s at Stake

‎For Barcelona, winning the Copa del Rey would be a statement of dominance, reinforcing their place at the top of Spanish football under Hansi Flick. For Atletico Madrid, a victory would provide a crucial trophy and a chance to assert their enduring relevance in Spanish knockout competitions.

‎The Basque derby semi-final carries its own significance, with pride, local bragging rights, and historical rivalry intensifying every clash.

‎Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad will leave everything on the pitch to reach a final that could see one of them face the giants of Spanish football.