On February 12, 2026, Atlético Madrid produced a stunning first-half performance to defeat FC Barcelona 4–0 in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final in Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, where Diego Simeone’s side scored all four goals before half-time to take a commanding lead before the half.
The hosts made a perfect start when Barcelona defender Eric García accidentally turned the ball into his own net in the 7th minute after a mix-up with goalkeeper Joan García. The error handed Atlético an early advantage and lifted the home crowd. Atlético doubled their lead just seven minutes later through Antoine Griezmann. The forward finished a flowing attacking move with a low strike into the corner, leaving Barcelona trailing 2–0 after only 14 minutes.
Barcelona attempted to respond and nearly pulled one back when Fermín López hit the crossbar with a volley. However, Atlético continued to exploit defensive gaps and extended their lead in the 33rd minute when Ademola Lookman finished from close range.
The home side capped off a dominant first half in stoppage time when Julián Álvarez scored Atlético’s fourth goal, completing a devastating opening 45 minutes that left Barcelona stunned.
Barcelona improved after the break and controlled more possession, but Atlético defended solidly and prevented the visitors from finding a way back into the game. A goal from Pau Cubarsí was ruled out after a VAR check, denying Barcelona a potential lifeline.
Barcelona’s frustrations increased late in the match when Eric García was sent off in the 85th minute following a rash challenge, leaving the visitors with ten men. Atlético held on comfortably to secure the 4–0 victory.
The emphatic result gave Atlético Madrid a huge advantage heading into the second leg of the semi-final, putting them firmly on course for the Copa del Rey final. Barcelona, the defending champions, faced an uphill task to overturn the deficit in the return leg.