This victory marked Real Sociedad’s fourth Copa del Rey title in their history. Unai Marrero, the team’s manager, became the first American manager to lift a major trophy in Europe’s top five football leagues. His leadership proved crucial as he guided the team from just above the relegation zone when he arrived in December.

The match began dramatically. Ander Barrenetxea scored the fastest goal in Copa del Rey final history just 14 seconds into the game. Atletico Madrid responded quickly with Ademola Lookman scoring their first goal in the 19th minute. However, Mikel Oyarzabal equalized for Real Sociedad with a penalty just before halftime.

As tension mounted, Julian Alvarez brought Atletico Madrid back into contention with a goal in the 83rd minute. The match ended 2-2 after extra time, leading to a penalty shootout where Atletico Madrid converted only three penalties compared to Real Sociedad’s four.

Unai Marrero’s heroics included saving two penalties during the shootout. This performance solidified his status as a key figure in this historic win for Real Sociedad.

Yet for Atletico Madrid, this loss extends their domestic trophy drought to five years. The team last appeared in a Copa del Rey final 13 years ago. Fans had hoped for a different outcome but were left disappointed as they watched their rivals celebrate.

The final was attended by 72,000 fans who witnessed an unforgettable match filled with drama and excitement. As Atletico Madrid reflects on this defeat, they must now regroup and focus on future challenges.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding potential changes within Atletico Madrid’s management or player roster following this setback.

The post Atletico Madrid Loses Copa del Rey Final to Real Sociedad appeared first on newscri.

During the first half, Fermin Lopez suffered a horror injury when he attempted a diving header. In a unfortunate turn of events, Juan Musso’s boot struck Lopez in the face, resulting in a serious-looking facial injury.

Blood was visible on the pitch following the collision, prompting immediate medical attention for Lopez. Despite the severity of the injury, he did not leave the match and continued playing after receiving treatment.

The referee did not issue any card to Musso for the challenge, which raised questions among observers regarding the officiating of the match. At the time of the injury, Barcelona was leading 2-1, putting them in a favorable position.

Juan Musso, the starting goalkeeper for Atletico Madrid, has had notable performances in previous matches, including a clean sheet against Barcelona earlier in the season. His involvement in this incident has drawn significant attention.

As the match progressed, the focus remained on Lopez’s condition and the implications of the injury for both players and teams. Observers noted that such injuries can have lasting effects on a player’s career.

Looking ahead, Musso is set to play in the upcoming Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad, which adds another layer of importance to his performance in the current Champions League campaign.

While the immediate aftermath of the injury was concerning, details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of Lopez’s injury and any potential long-term effects.

The post Juan Musso Involved in Fermin Lopez Injury During Champions League Match appeared first on newscri.

Manuel Ángel’s rise in the football world raises an intriguing question: can he transition from a promising academy player to a key figure in professional football? The answer appears to be affirmative, as he has already made significant strides with Real Madrid’s first team.

Manuel Ángel was called up to the Real Madrid squad for a match against Manchester City, marking a notable moment in his burgeoning career. His first-team debut came on January 16, 2026, during the Copa del Rey against Albacete BP, where he showcased his potential on a larger stage. Additionally, he played as a late substitute in LaLiga on March 6, 2026, against Celta de Vigo, further solidifying his presence in the senior squad.

His journey at Real Madrid began in 2014 when he arrived from Sevilla, quickly becoming a pivotal figure in the academy. Currently, he serves as the captain of Real Madrid Castilla, where he has logged an impressive 2,119 minutes, the highest total in the squad. This experience has not only honed his skills but has also positioned him as an on-field leader, described as an extension of his coach in both Juvenil A and Castilla.

However, his path has not been without challenges. Manuel Ángel has faced multiple injuries that have impacted his playing time, raising questions about his consistency and ability to handle the pressures of professional football. Despite these setbacks, he has demonstrated his capacity to influence matches, as evidenced by a crucial tackle on Fer Lopez that led to a goal.

Interest from clubs outside of Spain has also emerged, particularly from Aston Villa, which has been monitoring Manuel Ángel for over a year. While there have been no formal talks between Aston Villa and Real Madrid, the club’s ongoing attention suggests they see potential in the young player. Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether Aston Villa’s interest has been directly communicated to Real Madrid.

As he continues to develop, the next stage for Manuel Ángel will depend on his ability to maintain continuity and match the level of responsibility he currently carries. His performances in the coming months will be critical in determining whether he can secure a more permanent role within the first team or attract further interest from clubs like Aston Villa.

In summary, Manuel Ángel’s journey is one to watch as he navigates the challenges of professional football while aiming to fulfill his potential at Real Madrid and possibly beyond.

The post Manuel Ángel: Rising Star at Real Madrid appeared first on newscri.

“Nico rose highest to thump a header past Remiro for the eventual winning goal,” remarked a key participant after the match, encapsulating the excitement of the game. In a lively contest at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid, Atlético Madrid triumphed over Real Sociedad with a score of 3-2, marking their third consecutive league win.

The match began with an early goal from Alexander Sørloth, who found the net just five minutes in, setting the tone for a fast-paced encounter. However, Real Sociedad quickly responded, with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring to equalize shortly thereafter. This back-and-forth action kept fans on the edge of their seats as both teams showcased their attacking prowess.

Nico Gonzalez emerged as the standout player of the match, scoring two crucial goals for Atlético Madrid. His first was assisted by Antoine Griezmann, who delivered a stunning back-heeled pass. Gonzalez’s second goal proved to be the decisive factor, as he headed the ball into the net, securing the victory for his team.

The match served not only as a thrilling display of football but also as a preview for the upcoming Copa del Rey final set for April 18, 2026. With both teams likely to meet again in that high-stakes match, this encounter provided valuable insights into their current form and strategies.

Despite making several rotations in the lineup, Atlético Madrid maintained their competitive edge, demonstrating their depth and resilience. The match featured five goals and quick responses from both sides, highlighting the intensity of the competition. Atlético Madrid currently sits third in La Liga, reinforcing their status as a top contender this season.

Rodrigo Mendoza’s substitution at halftime due to an ankle injury added a layer of concern for Atlético Madrid, but the team managed to adapt effectively. The victory not only boosts their morale but also emphasizes their ability to win even when focusing on cup competitions.

Looking ahead, Atlético Madrid will face Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League on March 10, 2026. This upcoming match will be crucial as they aim to maintain their momentum and continue their pursuit of silverware this season.

As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, the implications of the match extend beyond just the scoreline. Griezmann’s commitment to the club, despite rumors linking him to Major League Soccer’s Orlando City, reassures fans of the team’s stability. “It did also reinforce something important: even with one eye clearly drifting toward the cup competitions, Atleti can still find ways to win in the league,” noted an observer, reflecting on the team’s performance.

The post Atlético madrid vs real sociedad appeared first on newscri.

“Obviously I am sad because we did not achieve our objective of reaching the final in Seville but we can be very proud,” said Hansi Flick, the coach of FC Barcelona, following a dramatic semi-final clash against Atlético Madrid.

On March 3, 2026, at Spotify Camp Nou, Barcelona faced the daunting task of overturning a 4-0 deficit from the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final. Despite a valiant effort, the aggregate score of 4-3 meant that Barcelona would not advance to the final for the second consecutive year.

In the second leg, Barcelona delivered a spirited performance, winning 3-0. Marc Bernal emerged as a standout player, scoring two goals, while Raphinha contributed with a penalty. This impressive display, however, was not enough to overcome the significant disadvantage from the first leg, where Atlético Madrid had decisively defeated Barcelona.

Flick emphasized the pride he felt in his team’s effort, stating, “We have given everything and that’s what I want to see. We gave more than 100% and that’s fantastic.” His sentiments reflect the resilience shown by the players, particularly the young talents from La Masia, including Bernal, who played a crucial role in the match.

The backdrop of this encounter was Barcelona’s ambition to reach the Copa del Rey final for a second consecutive year, a goal that seemed within reach after their strong performance in the second leg. However, the first leg’s heavy defeat loomed large over the team’s aspirations.

Flick also noted, “We have done it with lads from La Masia such as Cubarsí, Gerard Martín and Marc Bernal and that makes me happy.” This highlights the coach’s commitment to integrating youth players into the first team, showcasing the club’s rich tradition of developing homegrown talent.

Despite the disappointment, Flick acknowledged the heart shown by his squad, stating, “Today everybody played with heart and it was a great performance from us but it was just not to be and we have to accept that.” This reflects a sense of unity and determination within the team, even in the face of adversity.

With Atlético Madrid advancing to the Copa del Rey final for the first time in 13 years, the focus now shifts to their next challenge. For Barcelona, the journey continues as they regroup and look ahead to future competitions, aiming to build on the positives from this match.

The post Barca: FC Barcelona’s Heartfelt Exit from Copa del Rey: A Clash with Atlético Madrid appeared first on newscri.

As the Copa del Rey semi-final approaches, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Atlético Madrid has established a significant advantage, leading FC Barcelona 4-0 on aggregate. The second leg is set to take place on March 3, 2026, at the iconic Spotify Camp Nou in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. This match is pivotal for both teams, particularly for FC Barcelona, who face the daunting task of overturning a substantial deficit.

Key Developments

In the first leg of the semi-final, Atlético Madrid showcased their dominance, leaving FC Barcelona with a steep hill to climb. The upcoming match will be officiated by referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea, who will oversee what promises to be a tense encounter. Historically, Atlético Madrid has struggled at Camp Nou, having never secured a victory at this venue. However, the stakes are high, and the team under Diego Simeone is 90 minutes away from reaching the Copa del Rey final in Seville for the first time since 2000.

FC Barcelona’s Home Advantage

Despite their current predicament, FC Barcelona has been formidable at home since returning to Camp Nou in November 2025, winning all 13 of their matches there. This home advantage could play a crucial role as they attempt to mount a comeback against Atlético Madrid. The team’s supporters are hopeful, and the atmosphere is expected to be electric, with fans rallying behind their club. A quote from a Barcelona supporter encapsulates the sentiment: “Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!”

Real Sociedad’s Progress

In the other semi-final, Real Sociedad has taken the lead against Athletic Bilbao, winning the first leg 1-0. They will face off again on March 4, 2026, as they seek to secure their place in the final. The outcome of this match will determine who will face either Atlético Madrid or FC Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final scheduled for April 18, 2026.

Implications of the Matches

The results of these semi-final matches hold significant implications for all four clubs involved. For Atlético Madrid, a victory would not only secure a spot in the final but also mark a historic achievement against a rival they have struggled against at Camp Nou. Conversely, for FC Barcelona, the pressure is immense; failure to overturn the deficit would mean elimination from the tournament, a scenario that fans and players alike are desperate to avoid.

Looking Ahead

As the second leg approaches, the focus will be on whether FC Barcelona can harness their home advantage and turn the tide against Atlético Madrid. The upcoming matches will undoubtedly be pivotal in shaping the narrative of this year’s Copa del Rey, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcomes. The excitement surrounding the tournament continues to build, and the stakes have never been higher.

The Copa del Rey semi-finals are set to deliver high drama and intense competition. With Atlético Madrid leading and FC Barcelona fighting for survival, the next few days will be crucial in determining who advances to the final. The passion of the fans and the history of these clubs will add to the significance of the matches, making it a must-watch for football enthusiasts.

The post Copa del Rey: Atlético Madrid vs FC Barcelona Semi-Final Showdown appeared first on newscri.

Joseph Green serves as the Global Shopping Editor at Mashable, where he reports on topics such as VPNs, headphones, fitness equipment, dating platforms, streaming services, and major shopping events including Black Friday and Prime Day.

Copa del Rey Semi-Final Preview

Watch the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final featuring Barcelona vs Atlético Madrid without any cost.

Summary: Watch the Barcelona vs. Atlético Madrid match in the Copa del Rey for free on RTVE. You can access this complimentary streaming service from anywhere globally using ExpressVPN.

The initial legs of the Copa del Rey semi-finals truly impressed. Real Sociedad achieved a significant 1-0 victory against Athletic Bilbao in the Basque Derby, while Atlético Madrid stunned everyone by defeating Barcelona 4-0. With this result, they have placed themselves in a favorable position for the final. However, the task is far from complete, as Barcelona is a team known for their ability to stage comebacks, even from a 4-0 deficit.

How to Watch for Free

Barcelona must showcase their offensive prowess to secure a favorable outcome in this semi-final clash. The team’s hopes hinge on the talents of Lamine Yamal and Pedri.

You Might Also Enjoy

If you’re looking to catch the Barcelona vs. Atlético Madrid match in the Copa del Rey from anywhere across the globe, we have all the details you require.

Streaming with ExpressVPN

What time is the match between Barcelona and Atlético Madrid?

The match between Barcelona and Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey is set to begin at 3 p.m. ET on March 3. This event will be held at Camp Nou.

Stay updated with Mashable’s Top Stories, featuring the most exciting news of the day and the latest in entertainment. Subscribe to Mashable’s Top Stories newsletter Loading… Join Now By clicking Join Now, you confirm that you are 16+ and accept our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Thank you for subscribing!

Match Highlights and Analysis

Ways to stream Barcelona against Atlético Madrid at no cost

The Copa del Rey match featuring Barcelona against Atlético Madrid can be streamed live for free on RTVE.

RTVE is restricted to viewers in Spain, but anyone can enjoy this free streaming service using a VPN. These tools can mask your actual IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Spain, allowing you to access RTVE and watch the Copa del Rey live for free from anywhere around the globe.

Watch the Barcelona vs. Atlético Madrid match in the Copa del Rey for free by following these easy instructions:

Sign up for a VPN that is optimized for streaming (such as ExpressVPN). Install the application on your preferred device (top VPNs offer apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more). Launch the app and connect to a server located in Spain. Go to RTVE to watch Barcelona vs. Atlético Madrid for free from anywhere around the globe.

While the top VPNs for streaming aren’t free, many provide free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these promotions, you can enjoy free live broadcasts of the Copa del Rey without any upfront costs. Although this isn’t a sustainable long-term option, it allows you to watch Barcelona vs. Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey before you reclaim your expenditure.

Which VPN is the most effective for accessing RTVE?

User-friendly application accessible on all leading devices such as iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and others

We maintain a strict no-logging policy to ensure your information remains protected.

Rapid internet speeds without any restrictions

A maximum of 10 concurrent connections

30-day refund policy

A two-year plan for ExpressVPN is currently available for $68.40, which comes with an additional four months at no extra cost — a total savings of 81% for a limited period. This package also offers a full year of free unlimited cloud storage and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can opt for a one-month subscription priced at just $12.99, which also includes a money-back guarantee.

Watch the Copa del Rey match between Barcelona and Atlético Madrid live for free using ExpressVPN.

The post Barcelona vs atlético madrid: Copa del Rey Semi-Final Preview and Streaming Guide appeared first on newscri.