Atletico Madrid is set to host Spanish rivals Barcelona at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano for the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final clash, with Atletico seeking revenge after last season’s 5-4 aggregate defeat to the Catalans at the same stage.

The Rojiblancos’ journey to this semi-final included victories over Atletico Baleares (3-2), Deportivo La Coruna (1-0), and a commanding 5-0 win against Betis in the quarter-finals.

Despite this, Atletico’s recent form has been inconsistent, with just two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last five matches across all competitions, including a 1-0 home loss to Betis and a 3-1 league defeat to Barcelona.

Sitting third in La Liga with 45 points, 13 behind leaders Barcelona, the Copa del Rey represents a key opportunity for Atletico to salvage silverware this season, bolstered by the arrival of Ademola Lookman.

Barcelona arrives in formidable form, having won six consecutive matches across all competitions while scoring at least twice in each game.

The Blaugrana’s path to the semi-finals featured victories over CD Guadalajara (2-0), Racing Santander (2-0), and Albacete in the quarter-finals.

Already winners of the Spanish Super Cup, Hansi Flick’s side remains in contention for multiple trophies, including a potential treble with the Champions League last 16, topping La Liga, and another Copa del Rey final.

Historically, Barcelona holds a psychological advantage, remaining unbeaten in their last eight Copa del Rey encounters with Atletico and winning the last three meetings between the sides.

Injury concerns affect both teams ahead of the clash. Atletico Madrid may be without Johnny Cardoso (muscle injury) and Pablo Barrios (thigh), with Marc Pubill doubtful due to illness and Nicolas Gonzalez carrying physical discomfort.

Barcelona faces a more extensive list, with Frenkie de Jong (groin), Andreas Christensen (cruciate ligament), Gavi (meniscus), Pedri (hamstring), and Raphinha (thigh) all sidelined, while Marcus Rashford has been ruled out after a knee knock sustained in the recent La Liga win over Mallorca.

Expected lineups reflect these absences, with Atletico likely to field Oblak; Llorente, Pubill (if fit), Hancko, Ruggeri; Simeone, Mendoza, Koke, Baena; Griezmann, Lookman.

Barcelona is deploying Garcia; Martin, Garcia, Araujo, Cancelo; Bernal, Olmo, Lopez; Torres, Yamal.

Rashford’s absence is a significant blow to Barcelona’s attack.

Tactically, Atletico are expected to adopt a counter-attacking approach, ceding possession and exploiting Barcelona’s high defensive line, a strategy reminiscent of their previous meeting.

Barcelona will aim to play between the lines, using the pace and creativity of their wingers to break through Atletico’s defense while maintaining their characteristic high line.

With their current momentum, historical edge, and squad depth, Barcelona are favorites to reach the Copa del Rey final for the second consecutive season.

Betting tips suggest ‘Both teams to score,’ ‘Over 3.5 goals,’ and a predicted scoreline of Atletico Madrid 2-3 Barcelona.