Barcelona will be hoping to overcome a four-goal deficit when they host Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals. Hansi Flick’s side were beaten 4-0 at Riyadh’s Metropolitan Aviation Stadium three weeks ago and will need a comeback if they are to defend last season’s title.
Despite the daunting task they face, there is belief within Barcelona that they can advance to the Copa del Rey final despite Atletico’s loss. However, they will miss the game due to an eye injury suffered by Poland forward Robert Lewandowski in the win over Villarreal at the weekend, leaving Ferran Torres as Flick’s only recognized number nine.
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That said, Ferran can’t be ruled out starting on the bench, with MD reporting that Flick is considering using the false nine system that worked wonders in Barcelona’s 5-1 win over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey last season. If he goes this route, Dani Olmo will start the attack alongside Lamine Yamal and Rafinha, with Fermín Lopez occupying the number ten position.
Photo by Alex Caparos/Getty Images
Defensive changes coming
There were at least two changes from Villarreal’s victory, with Eric Garcia withdrawing due to suspension and Pedri starting after two 30-minute cameos on consecutive weekends. Gerard Martin and Ronald Araujo will compete with Paulo Cubasi for the starting centre-back spot and, bizarrely, Joao Cancelo is being considered to replace Alejandro Balde at left-back.
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Cancelo was impressive in Barcelona’s recent win over Levante and despite being sidelined against Villarreal, Flick is still keeping a close eye on him. He wants to use the Portuguese as another attacking outlet, which will force Giuliano Simeone to do more defensive work on Atletico’s right side.
