Atlético Madrid and Barcelona are set to clash in the return leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final at Spotify Camp Nou on Tuesday night, with Ademola Lookman’s side aiming to complete the task they started in emphatic fashion.
Atletico head into the encounter with a commanding 4-0 advantage from the first leg, placing them in a strong position to qualify for their first Copa del Rey final since the 2012-13 season. Lookman played a pivotal role in that ruthless display, delivering a goal and an assist against the reigning champions.
The Nigerian international has made a significant impact in the competition since joining Atletico. In outings against Real Betis and Barcelona, he has netted twice and provided two assists. Overall, the 28-year-old has contributed to seven goals in eight appearances across all competitions for his new club.
Barcelona, meanwhile, face an uphill battle as they attempt to overturn the deficit. The Catalans have responded positively at home since the first-leg defeat, recording a 3-0 victory over Levante and a 4-1 triumph against Villarreal. Hansi Flick’s men have been formidable on their own turf this season, suffering just one home loss while winning all their other matches there.
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Earlier in the campaign, Barcelona secured a 3-1 win over Atletico, but replicating that scoreline would not be enough to seal progression this time. To force extra time, the hosts must secure a victory by a margin of at least four goals; any smaller winning margin would confirm their elimination.
For Atletico, the objective is straightforward. Diego Simeone’s side know that a disciplined defensive performance will be sufficient to see them through.
However, with Lookman in an attack that also features Julián Álvarez, Antoine Griezmann and Alexander Sørloth, the visitors have the tools to punish Barcelona on the counterattack, just as they did so effectively in the first leg.
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