Barcelona face a daunting challenge on Tuesday night as they attempt to overturn a 4-0 deficit against Atlético Madrid in the second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final at Camp Nou. The tie represents a significant hurdle for Hansi Flick’s side, particularly after a first leg described as a “shock” by ESPN, where Atlético Madrid secured a commanding victory with four goals in the opening half.
The first leg result at the Metropolitano stadium on February 12th, 2026, leaves Barcelona needing to produce a remarkable comeback to preserve their title defense alive. Last season, Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 3–2 in extra time to claim the Copa del Rey, their eighth title in the 21st century, and a repeat performance this year would require a significant shift in fortunes.
Barcelona’s task is further complicated by injuries within the squad. Robert Lewandowski will miss the match due to an eye injury sustained during the weekend’s 4-1 victory over Villarreal, where 18-year-old Lamine Yamal scored his first career hat-trick. This absence leaves Ferran Torres as the only fully fit recognised number nine, though Hansi Flick is reportedly considering a tactical shift.
According to reports, Flick is contemplating deploying a “false nine” system, a strategy that proved successful in Barcelona’s 5-1 win against Real Betis in last season’s Copa del Rey. This would see Dani Olmo lead the attack alongside Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, with Fermin Lopez operating as a number 10.
Defensive changes are also anticipated for Barcelona. Eric Garcia is suspended, while Pedri is set to return to the starting lineup after two substitute appearances. Gerard Martin and Ronald Araujo are competing for a place alongside Pau Cubarsi in central defence. A surprising potential change sees Joao Cancelo being considered to replace Alejandro Balde at left-back, following a standout performance in Barcelona’s recent win over Levante.
Flick’s potential use of Cancelo is intended to provide an additional attacking outlet, potentially forcing Atlético Madrid’s Giuliano Simeone into more defensive duties on the right flank. Atlético Madrid, currently third in La Liga, albeit 13 points behind Barcelona, arrive in Catalonia after a 1-0 win over Real Oviedo.
The tie marks the second consecutive year the two sides have met in the Copa del Rey semi-finals. Last season’s encounter was a closely contested affair, with Barcelona edging out Atlético Madrid 5–4 on aggregate. The second leg is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3rd, at 9pm (20:00 GMT) at Camp Nou, with build-up coverage beginning at 5:30pm GMT on Al Jazeera Sport.