In the opening match of the Copa del Rey semifinals, Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid put on a prolific first half performance, as they slotted four goals past the current LaLiga leaders and reigning Copa del Rey champions.
Antoine Griezmann, Ademola Lookman and Julián Alvarez all found the net in a convincing 4-0 win that has Atletico in the driver’s seat of this semifinal against Barcelona.
Let’s dive into the ratings.
Player Ratings
Musso
As safe a pair of hands as you could hope. His saves on Ferrán Torres in the 43rd minute and then against Fermín López to open the second half were vital in keeping the momentum — and the clean sheet. Another strong point from the keeper was his quick distribution. The finest example of this was his drop kick to Lookman early in the match that helped set up the team’s second goal. 8
Molina
If the team’s attack was a machine, Molina would be the motor oil. Throughout the match, the right-back could be seen setting up play after play down the right flank, curling passes down the line and taking full advantage of Barcelona’s high line. The Argentine’s work, particularly in the first half, cannot be understated. 8
Pubill
Kept the defensive line compact and effective, doing well to sweep up any breakdowns from the flanks and keep Barcelona’s offense at bay. His interventions against players like Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo dispelled any danger. 7
Hancko
In a high-scoring match, it might be easy to look past at Hancko’s defensive performance, but his impact was absolutely crucial. With four interceptions, two blocked shots and two clearances, the Slovakia international showed once again why he has become the backbone of the squad’s defense. 7
Ruggeri
Tasked with checking the ever-dynamic Lamine Yamal, Ruggeri was able to prevent the young attacker from ever getting a strong foothold in the match. Calculated containment and successful on-ball pressure effectively removed Barcelona’s number one option from causing much trouble. 8
Giuliano Simeone
Missed a 1v1 in the opening minutes, but was an incredible nuisance coming down the righthand side as the game continued. His work with Griezmann and Nahuel Molina poked hole after hole in Barça’s defense. A complete terror in transition. 7.5
Llorente
A natural midfielder, Llorente was energetic on both ends of the ball. His elite stamina enabled him to float from box to box, adding an extra option in the build up play while also breaking down many of the opposition’s attacks through the middle. The Spaniard ended the match with nine recoveries and three clearances on the night. 8
Koke
Passed simply and effectively while dutifully recovering the ball and winning five of eight ground duels. Kept the team focused and locked-in positionally. 6
Lookman
Scored the team’s third goal on 33 minutes after receiving a pass from Alvarez and placing the ball past Joan García. He repaid the favor with an assist to La Araña in stoppage time. Lookman continues to add a definitive presence in the final third. 8.5
Griezmann
The Frenchman put on an inspired performance against his former team, looking like his vintage self up top. Not only did Griezmann cause a world of problems with his deft passing, he doubled Atlético’s lead in the first half after opening up his body and slotting the ball away on 15 minutes. 8
Alvarez
Assisted Lookman’s goal with a ball across the box and ended his own goal drought with a thumping strike into the back of the net in the second minute of first-half stoppage time. The relief from the striker was evident in his celebration, as he scored his first goal of 2026. 8.5
Subs
Baena
Was eager to help out in the attack after replacing Griezmann in the second half. His willingness to go for the ball caused Eric García to foul the midfielder and receive a red card. 5
Sørloth
Recorded two shots after subbing in for Álvarez, but was unable to etch his name onto the scoreline. 5
Almada
The former Atlanta United man provided quick and dangerous distribution forward, picking up two key passes in his time on the pitch. 5.5
Le Normand
Replaced Koke in added time. Added some energy to the defense in the last minutes of the match. 5
