“We tried everything”
©IMAGO
The little football miracle failed to materialize. Coach Hansi Flick and FC Barcelona failed in the semi-finals of the Spanish Cup against Atlético Madrid. The defending champions from Catalonia won the second leg 3-0 (2-0) at Camp Nou, but despite their strong performance they were unable to make up for the 4-0 defeat in the first leg.
Barça’s Marc Bernal (29th minute) gave Flick’s team the lead after preparatory work by young star Lamine Yamal. In stoppage time in the first half, Raphinha (45th + 5) increased the score to 2-0 with a penalty kick. Barcelona also dominated the action on the pitch in the second half.
Another goal from Bernal (72nd) gave the LaLiga leaders hope. But Atlético saved themselves into the final with a strong defensive performance. There, coach Diego Simeone’s team will face Real Sociedad San Sebastián or Athletic Bilbao. Last year, Barça narrowly prevailed against Atlético in the Copa del Rey after two hard-fought games and ultimately triumphed in the final against Real Madrid.
FC Barcelona: Reactions from Flick and Deco after the cup exit
Coach Flick said after the final whistle, according to “Barcawelt”: “I’m disappointed because we had a lot of chances to score more goals, but we played a great game. I’m proud of my players, but still disappointed. They gave everything on the pitch, they were fantastic. It’s disappointing not to be in the final, but we can be proud of what we saw today. They tried everything.”
Sports director Deco added: “With this fighting spirit we can dream of big things. I hope it doesn’t affect the season. We have to recover. A game like today’s is extremely tiring, especially against an opponent like Atlético.”
