The Copa del Rey semi-final first leg between Atlético de Madrid and Barcelona burst into life from the opening minutes at the Metropolitano.
Both sides applied intense high pressure, creating early chances in a frantic start to the tie.
Julián Álvarez and Giuliano Simeone produced Atlético’s first openings, while Lamine Yamal came closest for Hansi Flick’s side with a dangerous cross-shot inside the first 10 minutes.
However, the breakthrough goal arrived in the 6th minute from a situation that initially looked harmless for Barça.
With the defence in control of possession, Eric García played the ball back to his goalkeeper. Positioned slightly off-centre, Joan García made a costly mistake that gifted Atlético the opener.
A mix of misfortune, pitch conditions and human error contributed to the incident. The ‘keeper miscontrolled the pass after an awkward bounce, allowing the ball to slip under his foot and roll toward goal.
The Sallent-born stopper scrambled back in an attempt to clear it off the line but could not prevent it from crossing. Ademola Lookman then slammed home the rebound to make sure of the lead.
Atlético’s flying start continued, with Antoine Griezmann doubling the advantage ten minutes later to create early distance in the tie.
