Tuesday night brings a cracking clash as Barcelona welcome Atletico Madrid to the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys for the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final.
Both sides are firmly in the La Liga title race and have Champions League last-16 ties on the horizon, but this competition still holds plenty of significance, especially for Hansi Flick, who could edge closer to his first trophy as Barca boss with a win here.
Barcelona head into this fixture in fine form, having extended their unbeaten run to 13 games across all competitions with a 2-0 victory over Las Palmas at the weekend. That result also made it five wins on the bounce for the Blaugrana, so confidence will be running high.
Their record in the Copa del Rey has been just as impressive, with 14 goals scored in just three matches. And while they may be playing at a temporary home this season, they’ve still made life difficult for visiting teams.
Atletico know that all too well, having lost on their last two trips to Barca’s home ground. However, they did end a five-game losing streak in this fixture with a 2-1 win over Flick’s side earlier in the season, so Diego Simeone’s men will believe they can finally break their poor run at Barca’s home, especially given they’ve won 11 of their last 13 away matches.
Los Colchoneros have also been prolific in this competition, netting nine goals in their last two Copa del Rey outings. With both sides showing a strong attacking edge in the tournament, we could be in for a high-scoring affair.
Players to Watch
Raphinha is enjoying the season of his life for Barcelona, playing a pivotal role in their attack with goals and assists. He’ll have a big say in how this tie unfolds.
For Atletico, Julian Alvarez comes into this clash off the back of a two-goal display at the weekend and will be a major threat.
Betting Tip: Bet Builder – Barcelona Win or Draw + Both Teams to Score + Raphinha 1+ Shots on Target
25/02 21:30 Barcelona – Atletico Madrid Bet Builder – Barcelona Win or Draw + Both Teams to Score + Raphinha 1+ Shots on Target @ 2.47 (Betano)
This midweek cup tie, sandwiched between more significant competitions like La Liga and the Champions League, could see both managers rotate their squads. But with a spot in the final on the line and such a high-profile opponent, it wouldn’t be surprising to see both sides field their strongest possible XIs.
That should increase the likelihood of a high-scoring match, with both teams likely contributing to the scoreline, especially as both sides have averaged over three goals over their last two matches in this tournament.
However, considering Barcelona’s unbeaten run and Atletico’s struggles at this ground, backing the hosts not to lose makes sense.
Atletico have generally been excellent on the road this season and should get on the scoresheet, but their recent record at Barcelona suggests a win might be a step too far.
If he starts, Raphinha should play a key role in Barca’s attack and should be able to register at least one shot on target.
So, a Bet Builder combining Barcelona Win or Draw + Both Teams to Score + Raphinha 1+ Shots on Target at 2.70 odds on Betano looks like excellent value and perfectly captures the best betting angle for this fixture.
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid - Bet Builder: Barcelona Win or Draw + Both Teams to Score + Raphinha 1+ Shots on Target @ 2.47
Possible Lineups:
- Barcelona: Szczesny (GK); Kounde, Araujo, I Martinez, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Raphinha, Olmo, Yamal; Lewandowski
- Atletico Madrid: Musso (GK); Molina, Gimenez, Le Normand, Galan; Simeone, De Paul, Barrios, Lino; Griezmann, Alvarez
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