High-voltage clash today between FC Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid in the duel to decide one of the finalists of the Copa del Rey. They are two of the most in-form clubs in all of Europe, both having made it into the top eight in the first phase of the Champions League. Additionally, they remain alongside Real Madrid in the fight for LaLiga, being separated by only one point and with a direct confrontation yet to be played.
Surely, nothing will be decided today, as they will meet again in a month at the Metropolitano to settle this tie. Both coaches have some doubts in their line-ups, but in yesterday's respective press conferences, the respect between both was clear. In fact, one of the most surprising responses came from Simeone when he was asked about the strength of this Barça.
Simeone Once Again Showers Praise
Surely, FC Barcelona has been one of the teams that has posed the most difficulties to the colchonero side since the Argentine's arrival on the bench. Until their last duel, Simeone had not been able to win against Barça away, although this time it wasn't at the Camp Nou. The blaugranas were superior overall, but a counterattack in injury time would end up giving the victory to the colchoneros.
Before this clash, both coaches spoke to the media to analyze their rival and provide the keys to a match that will be very contested. In the case of Cholo, he was asked about the key to how FC Barcelona has been able to turn their situation around and rejoin the fight. His response was clear, as he gave all the credit to Hansi Flick, whom he described as the great strength of his rival and one of their strong points.
Fourth Match Against Hansi Flick
Before his arrival at Barça, the German coach had already faced Atlético de Madrid in the Champions League when he was still with Bayern Munich. At that time, the Germans were the reigning champions of the competition after defeating PSG in the previous final during the pandemic. Hansi Flick defeated Simeone 4-0 in Germany and achieved a commendable draw with many rotations at the Metropolitano after a penalty goal.
Obviously, there is a better memory for the rojiblanco team from their last visit to Montjuïc, where they achieved a victory that lifted them to the sole leadership of the championship. Tonight's visit takes place in the Copa del Rey, a tournament the colchoneros have not been able to win since the final against Real Madrid in 2013. In fact, the white team will play the other semifinal tomorrow in their visit to a Real Sociedad that wants to repeat the title as in 2021.