Barcelona bowed out of the Copa del Rey after a gripping 4-3 aggregate defeat to Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals, despite pushing the holders to the limit in a dramatic second leg.
Facing a daunting challenge following last month’s 4-0 first-leg loss, the Catalan side came out aggressively at the Spotify Camp Nou. Under Hansi Flick, the hosts applied relentless pressure from the outset, repeatedly testing goalkeeper Juan Musso.
Raphinha struck the side netting early on, while Ferran Torres threatened twice. Alejandro Balde, introduced after an injury to Jules Kounde, also forced Musso into action as the home team sought a breakthrough.
The breakthrough arrived in the 29th minute. A superb run down the left by Lamine Yamal created space, and his delivery found 18-year-old Marc Bernal unmarked in the box to finish from close range, igniting belief among the home supporters.
Raphinha penalty fuels belief before Atletico resist
The goal lifted the atmosphere and revived dreams of another comeback, recalling last season’s triumph at the same stage en route to lifting the trophy for a record 32nd time.
Antoine Griezmann offered the visitors’ main threat, striking the post before being flagged offside, while Ademola Lookman steered a promising opportunity wide.
Deep into first-half stoppage time, Pedri was brought down inside the area by Clement Lenglet. Raphinha stepped up and calmly converted from the spot, sending Musso the wrong way to reduce the aggregate deficit further.
After the interval, former Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez forced a save from goalkeeper Joan Garcia. Bernal remained a constant danger, drawing another stop from Musso as the pressure mounted.
Bernal double not enough as comeback bid ends
With time running out, Flick introduced Marcus Rashford from the bench in search of additional firepower. Yet it was Bernal who struck again with 18 minutes remaining, turning in a cross from Joao Cancelo to claim his fourth goal in as many matches.
The hosts poured forward in the closing stages, throwing everything at their opponents in pursuit of the decisive fourth goal that would have forced extra time.
Their closest opportunity came when Gerard Martin curled an effort narrowly over the crossbar, but Atletico stood firm.
Diego Simeone’s side held their nerve to progress and will meet the winner of Real Sociedad and Athletic Club in the final.