King’s Cup 2025-2026: Atletico Madrid-Barcelona, the likely lineups
Aletico Madrid and Barcelona, on the pitch at 9 p.m. for the King’s Cup semifinal first leg, promise a spectacle worthy of the most prestigious occasions. The two teams arrive at the appointment with lofty ambitions and with the knowledge that the first act of the semifinal could direct the path to the final. On the one hand the solidity and intensity of Simeone’s lineup, on the other the technical quality and offensive ability of the Blaugrana, in a match that promises balance and spectacle.
The hosts arrive at the challenge with the knowledge that they are facing one of the strongest teams in Europe, but also with the mentality and determination needed to put a real battleship like Barcelona to the test. The Colchoneros’ moment of form is characterized by a certain discontinuity. In the last six matches, Simeone’s team has collected two wins, two draws and two defeats, scoring a total of 10 goals. Among the most recent results are the clear 5-0 thrashing of Betis and the 3-0 success against Mallorca, alternating, however, with setbacks such as the home defeat against the same Betis and the European defeat against Bodo Glimt. The “cholo” Simeone is deploying a 4-2-3-1: Musso in goal; Pubill and Hancko in the center, Llorente and Ruggeri as full-backs; Koke’s experience in the midfield with young Mendoza replacing the injured Barrios; Griezmann running the three-quarter with new signing Lookman on the left flank and Giovanni Simeone on the right, Julian Alvarez.
Decidedly different situation for Barcelona, which comes to the semifinals with important numbers and growing confidence. The Blaugrana are first in the Spanish league and are coming off six consecutive victories, with 19 goals scored, confirming the great offensive effectiveness of the Catalan formation. Coach Hansi Flick, however, will have to do without important players: in addition to the long-suffering Gavi, Pedri and Christensen, Raphinha and Rashford struggling with thigh and knee problems, respectively, join the list. Despite some absences the Blaugrana attack remains at an absolute level, the German coach will rely on Ferran Torres up there in front supported by Fermin Lopez, Dani Olmo and star Lamine Yamal; in the middle of the field De Jong with Eric Garcia adapted; 4-man line composed of Kounde and Balde wide with Martin and Cubarsì central; Joan Garcia in goal to complete the 4-2-3-1.
Probable Lineups
ATLETIC MADRID (4-2-3-1): Musso; Llorente, Pubill, Hancko, Ruggeri; Koke, Mendoza; G. Simeone, Griezmann, Lookman; J.Alvarez. All. Simeone
BARCELONA (4-2-3-1): Garcia; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martin, Balde; De jong, Garcia; Yamal, D.Olmo, Fermin Lopez; Torres. All. Flick
