Barcelona defeated Atletico Madrid 3-0 in the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg but lost 4-3 on aggregate, ending their title defense. Marc Bernal scored twice, with Raphinha adding a penalty, yet Atletico advanced to the final. The match highlighted Barcelona's resilience despite mounting injuries.
Barcelona hosted Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou on March 3, 2026, aiming to overturn a 4-0 first-leg deficit from February 12. The Blaugrana started strongly, with Fermin Lopez and Ferran Torres denied by goalkeeper Juan Musso early on. Lamine Yamal provided a stunning assist for Marc Bernal's opener, twisting past two defenders to square the ball.
Antoine Griezmann missed a clear chance for Atletico, shooting straight at Joan Garcia. Ademola Lookman headed wide from Marcos Llorente's cross. Pedri won a penalty after a foul by Marc Pubill, which Raphinha converted to make it 2-0 just before halftime.
In the second half, Musso saved efforts from Joao Cancelo and Bernal. Bernal doubled his tally from Cancelo's deep cross, a goal that stood despite offside replays. Bernal later curled a shot over the bar, missing a chance to force extra time.
Barcelona dominated with 71% possession and 21 shots but could not find a fourth goal. Atletico clung on, securing their first Copa del Rey final since 2013. They will face Real Sociedad or Athletic Bilbao, who drew 1-0 in their first leg.
Injuries plagued Barcelona: Jules Kounde left after 13 minutes with a non-contact issue, replaced by Alejandro Balde, who hobbled off at 71 minutes in tears, substituted by Ronald Araujo. Robert Lewandowski missed the match with a fractured eye socket, Frenkie de Jong a hamstring injury, and Eric Garcia was suspended.
Hansi Flick's side leads La Liga by four points over Real Madrid. They face Athletic Bilbao on Saturday before the Champions League last-16 first leg against Newcastle United next Tuesday.
