Atlético Madrid reach Copa del Rey final after narrow aggregate win over Barcelona

Atleti hold on despite 3-0 loss at Camp Nou to book their place in Seville final

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Atlético Madrid are back in the Copa del Rey final for the first time since 2013, despite a 3-0 defeat to Barcelona at the Spotify Camp Nou. Atleti entered the second leg with a 4-0 aggregate lead but were dominated by a Barcelona side led by the impressive 18-year-old Lamine Yamal. However, Atlético held on to the tie thanks to a heroic performance from goalkeeper Juan Musso and a tireless display from Antoine Griezmann, booking their place in the final.

Why it matters

This result ends Atlético's long wait to reach a domestic cup final under manager Diego Simeone, who last guided the club to a Copa del Rey final in 2013. The victory also sets up the possibility of a high-stakes rematch between Atlético and Barcelona in the Champions League quarterfinals, should both teams advance. Atlético will now look to win their first trophy since 2021 when they face either Athletic Club or Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final.

The details

Despite entering the second leg with a 4-0 aggregate lead, Atlético Madrid were thoroughly outplayed by a Barcelona side that dominated possession and created numerous chances. Lamine Yamal was the standout performer for Barça, completing 14 dribbles and setting up the opening goal for Marc Bernal. Raphinha then converted a penalty to make it 2-0 on the night, leaving Atlético clinging to their aggregate advantage. A third Barcelona goal in the 72nd minute further increased the nerves, but Atlético held on to reach the final.

  • The second leg took place at the Spotify Camp Nou on March 4, 2026.
  • Atlético Madrid will face either Athletic Club or Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final on April 18, 2026.

The players

Juan Musso

Atlético Madrid's goalkeeper, who made several crucial saves to preserve his side's aggregate lead.

Antoine Griezmann

Atlético Madrid's veteran forward, who was the team's primary outlet and defensive contributor in a difficult match.

Lamine Yamal

Barcelona's 18-year-old midfielder, who was the standout performer on the night with 14 completed dribbles and an assist.

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What they’re saying

“At 3-0 down, I found myself saying 'esto es Atleti,' implying that the side always had to suffer. This was a suffering for the ages, and thankfully it was worth it.”

— Diego Simeone, Atlético Madrid manager (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

Atlético Madrid and Barcelona could face off again in the Champions League quarterfinals, should both teams advance from the Round of 16. The two-legged tie would be played just days before the Copa del Rey final on April 18, 2026.

The takeaway

This narrow aggregate victory highlights Atlético Madrid's resilience and ability to grind out results, even when not at their best. The performance raises questions about their tactical approach, but the result secures Atlético's first domestic cup final appearance in over a decade under Diego Simeone, setting up a chance to end their trophy drought.