Barcelona on Verge of Copa del Rey Exit, Hansi Flick Refuses to Surrender

A crushing defeat doesn't always signify the end. At least that's the message Head Coach Hans-Dieter "Hansi" Flick wanted to emphasize after FC Barcelona was demolished 4-0 by Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the 2025/2026 Copa del Rey semifinal.

The result at the Civitas Metropolitano Stadium, Madrid, early Friday morning WIB, undoubtedly left deep disappointment for the German coach. Four goals nestled in just the first 45 minutes, a half Flick acknowledged as a grim portrait of his team.

"We will fight," Flick stated, quoted from Barcelona's official website.

Barcelona couldn't escape Atletico's intense pressure from the opening minutes. Eric Garcia's own goal in the 7th minute opened the floodgates of disaster.

Antoine Griezmann doubled the home team's lead in the 14th minute, followed by Ademola Lookman (33') and Julian Alvarez (45'+2') before halftime.

According to Flick, the first half was the biggest point of evaluation. He believed conceding four goals in the first half showed his team performed far below standard.

Barcelona couldn't pressure the opponent and failed to show hunger for victory. The intensity and aggressiveness that usually define their game were almost non-existent.

However, Flick saw a different response after the break. He stated his team performed better in the second half, even though they couldn't score a reply goal.

"I'm proud of my team. Obviously, I'm not happy with the first 45 minutes, but I'm proud of the season we're having. We have a chance to turn things around. We could win each half 2-0," said Flick.

That statement affirmed Barcelona hasn't given up, even though the 0-4 aggregate is a heavy burden heading into the second leg. This defeat significantly reduced the chances for Lamine Yamal and his teammates to advance to the final and defend this season's Copa del Rey title.

On the other hand, this big win also holds historical significance for Atletico. According to Transfermarkt records, the 4-0 scoreline against Barcelona at the Metropolitano marks their first four-goal margin victory in a semifinal since the 1988/1989 season.

Now, all eyes are on How Barcelona responds in the second leg. Flick is certainly disappointed, but one thing is certain: he isn't ready to give up yet.