Atletico Madrid will welcome Barcelona to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Thursday evening for the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final clash.
The two Spanish heavyweights meet once again at this stage of the competition, with Diego Simeone’s men aiming for revenge after last season’s elimination at the hands of the Catalan giants.
Atletico Madrid face a familiar challenge in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey, having been knocked out by Barcelona at the same stage last season.
With La Liga slipping away, the Copa del Rey represents a significant opportunity for silverware this season, and Atletico Madrid will be desperate to avoid a repeat of last season’s scenario.
Barcelona, meanwhile, arrive in formidable form – Hansi Flick’s side have won their last six matches in all competitions, scoring at least twice in each of those victories.
The Catalan giants sit top of the La Liga table with 58 points from 23 matches, boasting the best attacking record in the division with 63 goals scored and just 23 conceded.
While Atletico Madrid are strong at home and will be motivated by last season’s elimination, Barcelona’s current form and attacking consistency give them the edge.
Credit: sportsmole.co.uk
