Copa Del Rey 2016/17: Atletico Madrid 1-2 Barcelona, 5 talking points

Modified Feb 02, 2017 05:16 GMT

MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 01: Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring their second goal with teammates Luis Suarez (R) and Andre Gomes (L) during the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg match between Club Atletico de Madrid and FC Barcelona at Estadio Vicente Calderon on February 1, 2017 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images) — Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi were on target as FC Barcelona beat Atletico Madrid 2-1

#2 Atletico Madrid's season close to being in tatters

MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 01: Coach Diego Pablo Simeone of Atletico de Madrid looks up prior to start the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg match between Club Atletico de Madrid and FC Barcelona at Estadio Vicente Calderon on February 1, 2017 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images) — Atletico Madrid have never won the Copa Del Rey in the club’s history

The final season at Vicente Calderon had increased expectations from the Atletico supporters of going away from their beloved home ground with some special memories. However, looking at their league and domestic cup form, Atletico's season hangs by a thread on their Champions League campaign which returns next month. They are 10 points behind leaders Real Madrid and are currently fourth in the league table and securing Champions League football in the new stadium would be the prime aim for Simeone.

Copa Del Rey, meanwhile, was a good chance to salvage a faltering campaign but the Catalans proved too good on the night as Luis Enrique's side completely tore apart Atletico's defence in the first half. Simeone's substitutions brought Atletico back in the game in the second half but they now need a miracle at Camp Nou to reach the finals of a competition which the Colchoneros have never won in their illustrious history.

Edited by Staff Editor