Atlético Sharpens its Claws in Cup
Atlético de Madrid faced Barcelona in a crucial Copa del Rey match, seeking a place in the final. The first leg was played in Montjuïc, a ground where Los Colchoneros have already tasted victory on their last visit.
Marcos Llorente deployed on the right flank, a familiar position for him, after having played as a midfielder in La Liga. Giménez, a mainstay in defense, returned to the starting eleven after a rest. Lenglet, on loan from Barcelona, had the opportunity to prove his worth against his former team.
Galán returned to the starting lineup, in charge of covering the left lane. Giuliano contributed his dynamism in attack from the right, tactically adapting to reinforce the defense when necessary. Rodrigo De Paul, in great form, was the engine of the team in midfield.
Pablo Barrios returned to the starting eleven after serving a suspension. Griezmann, true to his goalscoring instinct, did not forgive the first opportunity he had, taking advantage of a pass from Julián. Julián, with a goal and an assist in the first few minutes, demonstrated his goalscoring nose. Simeone opted for a line-up similar to that of the League match. The team demonstrated its ability to adapt and its ambition from the start.
