The Metropolitano Stadium became the scene of a real nightmare for Barcelona after their 4-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid.
The first semi-final of the King's Cup left a deep wound, marked by the performances of Pau Cubarsi, Alejandro Balde and Marc Casado.
The Madrid team dominated against a tactical approach that lacked defensive consistency and midfield balance. Individual errors sank the chances of a team that had arrived as favourites but left under serious question marks.
The fragility of Pau Cubarsi and Alejandro Balde in the area
The defense experienced a constant test, with Cubarsi failing to find the stability he needed on the Madrid pitch. The young defender proved to be insecure, slipping at crucial moments and constantly being outpaced by the opponents' mobility.
On the left wing, Alejandro Balde played a match accompanied by tension and disorder in the defensive phase.
Marc Casado's limited influence in midfield
In midfield, Barcelona failed to impose its authority due to the fragility displayed by the midfielders.
Marc Casado was the main victim of the scheme, being replaced before the end of the first half by Hnasi Flick.
Despite receiving a yellow card for a dangerous tackle, his impact on the game was practically negligible and weak.Telegrafi/
