FC Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid Lineups, Copa Del Rey 2024-25: FCB vs ATM Probable Starting XI, Injury Report

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The much-anticipated second leg of the Copa Del Rey semifinal between FC Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid is set to take place at the Metropolitano Stadium. This match follows a thrilling 4-4 draw in the first leg.

As FC Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid prepare for this crucial encounter, fans are eager to see the lineups. Both teams have had time to strategize and recover from their previous high-scoring affair.

In the FC Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid clash, the spotlight is on the probable starting XIs, injury reports, and squad news. Barcelona, under Hansi Flick, aims to continue their pursuit of a treble, while Atletico, led by Diego Simeone, looks to secure a spot in the final against Real Madrid or Real Sociedad. This match promises tactical intrigue, with both coaches known for their strategic acumen.

FC Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid: Match Details

• Date: Wednesday, April 2, 2025
• Time: 20:30 BST
• Venue: Metropolitano Stadium, Madrid, Spain
• Broadcast: In the UK, the game will be available on Premier Sports 1.

FC Barcelona: Probable Starting XI and Team News

Barcelona's lineup for this crucial match is expected to be strong, with Hansi Flick making strategic choices based on recent form and fitness:

• Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczęsny
• Defenders: Jules Koundé, Iñigo Martínez, Pau Cubarsí, Alejandro Baldé
• Midfielders: Pedri, Frenkie de Jong
• Attacking Midfielders: Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha
• Forward: Robert Lewandowski

Injury Report:

• Dani Olmo is out with an adductor issue, expected to return late April.
• Marc-André ter Stegen has returned to light training but is unlikely to feature.
• Andreas Christensen could make the squad after a recent setback.
• Pau Cubarsí is back in contention after missing games due to an ankle injury.

Squad News:

• Raphinha is "absolutely ready" to return after missing recent matches due to international duty.
• Pau Cubarsí is available to start, providing a boost to the defense.
• The absence of Dani Olmo is a significant blow, but the return of key players like Raphinha and Cubarsí adds depth.

Atletico Madrid: Probable Starting XI and Team News

Atletico Madrid, under the guidance of Diego Simeone, will look to leverage their home advantage with a lineup that balances experience and youth:

• Goalkeeper: Juan Musso
• Defenders: Nahuel Molina, José María Giménez, Clement Lenglet, Javi Galán
• Midfielders: Marcos Llorente, Rodrigo de Paul, Conor Gallagher, Giuliano Simeone
• Forwards: Julián Álvarez, Antoine Griezmann

Injury Report:

• Koke remains a doubt with a muscle injury, not having played since February 15.
• Robin Le Normand was substituted due to a head injury but is fit after training normally.

Squad News:

• Diego Simeone might surprise with his lineup, potentially including Conor Gallagher in midfield.
• Juan Musso retains his spot in goal despite scrutiny over his first-leg performance.
• Nahuel Molina's return could strengthen the defense against Barcelona's attack.

Head-to-Head and Recent Form

• Recent Form: Barcelona has shown resilience, remaining unbeaten in 20 games in 2025, while Atletico has had a mixed season, falling behind in LaLiga and exiting the Champions League.
• Head-to-Head: In their last five encounters, Barcelona has three wins, Atletico one, with one draw. Their most recent league meeting saw Barcelona triumph 4-2.

Tactical Analysis

Barcelona's Approach: Hansi Flick has instilled a high-pressing, possession-based game in Barcelona. With players like Pedri and De Jong controlling the midfield, and the attacking trio of Yamal, Raphinha, and Lewandowski providing flair and goals, Barcelona aims to dominate possession and exploit spaces left by Atletico's aggressive play.

Atletico Madrid's Strategy: Diego Simeone's Atletico is known for its defensive solidity and counter-attacking prowess. With Griezmann and Alvarez up front, they pose a significant threat on the break. Simeone's tactical setup will likely focus on disrupting Barcelona's rhythm, using the physicality and experience of players like Giménez and Lenglet.

Key Battles

• Lamine Yamal vs Nahuel Molina: Yamal's pace and trickery against Molina's defensive discipline will be a highlight.
• Frenkie de Jong vs Rodrigo de Paul: A midfield battle where control could dictate the game's flow.
• Robert Lewandowski vs José María Giménez: The Polish striker's movement against Giménez's aerial prowess will be crucial.

What's at Stake

For Barcelona, this match is another step towards a potential treble, with LaLiga and Champions League titles also in sight. For Atletico, the Copa Del Rey represents their best chance at silverware this season, making this game a 'final before the final' as described by Flick.