Copa del Rey: Barça Bows Out Gracefully…Atlético in the Final

They gave their all, moved mountains, but hit a wall built in Madrid three weeks ago. FC Barcelona delivered a massive performance this Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Spotify Camp Nou, crushing Atlético de Madrid (3-0), yet failing to overturn the 4-0 from the first leg. A cruel elimination in the Copa del Rey semi-finals that leaves a bitter taste, but also reasons for hope, and above all, serious health concerns. A comeback on the verge of a feat Despite the elimination, the performance was far from catastrophic. Hansi Flick's players delivered a display of character. With 71% possession, Barça suffocated the Colchoneros. The midfield enforcers, notably young Marc Bernal, who scored a brace, delivered the decisive blow. Raphinha, from a penalty, also contributed to this 3-0 victory. But as Haitian journalist Jean Pierre Étienne perfectly summarized, « the comeback was not far off ». Yet, it did not happen. That fourth goal, the one for extra time, was missing to make the scenario legendary. A feeling shared by supporters: pride in the reaction, mixed with the frustration of a catastrophic first leg. Lamine Yamal, sparkling, tried to force destiny with 14 successful dribbles out of 19 attempts, a technical recital. Pedri, Cancelo, and Cubarsi also lifted the team, but the extra spirit was not enough. The Gerard Martin Paradox: Invincibility in Central Defense In this decisive match, Hansi Flick had to innovate. With injuries and suspensions, Gerard Martin was fielded as the left-sided center-back. A choice that raised eyebrows, given the player's past. However, an unusual statistic resurfaces and brings a wry smile: this season, when « Gerard Maldini » (an ironic social media nickname) starts in central defense, Barça boasts a perfect record of 14 wins in 14 matches. Against Atlético, he delivered a sober and solid performance, contributing to a clean sheet (0 goals conceded). A performance that adds to the paradox of a team capable of delivering complete matches with criticized players, yet stumbling in the overall management of the season. The Shadow of a Pivoting Season? Injuries and Squad Management However, beyond the elimination, the major concern lies in the infirmary. Jules Koundé, who left injured, could be out for a month. He joins a dangerously growing list. In a press conference, a visibly annoyed Hansi Flick challenged his staff: « We have two more injuries, it's unfortunate. We need to talk to the medical staff: how can 3 players get injured in one week? » This German's cold anger hides a major tactical concern. Haitian journalist Ralph Ganthier poses a pertinent strategic question: « Flick took a big risk and could pay for it later. » By burning so much energy in this quest for a comeback, with already fatigued players, has the coach jeopardized what's next? The schedule is unforgiving: an away match at San Mamés on Saturday, followed by a clash at Saint James’ Park on Tuesday in the Champions League. Was the pursuit of honor in the Cup worth this physical sacrifice? « We will win La Liga and the Champions League » Despite the disappointment, the locker room displays unwavering faith. Raphinha, proud but clear-headed, delivered a leader's speech: « I leave with immense pride. If we play like today until the end of the season, we will have a very good finish in La Liga and the Champions League. » A sentiment reinforced by Ronald Araujo's shocking statement in the mixed zone: « If we continue to play like this, we will win the Champions League and La Liga. » This self-confidence is the fuel for this team. But it will have to contend with an exhausted squad. The « Quest for the Quadruple » thus ends in February. The dream of four titles vanished against the Colchoneros. This elimination is a free warning for the game, but a blow to pride and the squad. Barça proved it had the spirit and talent to compete with the best, but managing efforts and injuries will be the cornerstone of their season's end. Flick now has the heavy task of transforming this frustration into fuel for La Liga and the Champions League, while managing an infirmary that is dangerously filling up. Jean Wesley Pierre / Le Relief