Alexander Sorloth struck deep into stoppage time to cap a breathtaking contest as Atletico Madrid salvaged a dramatic 4-4 draw against Barcelona in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final on Tuesday.

The match saw momentum shift repeatedly, with an explosive start from Atletico putting the hosts on the back foot early on. Former Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez stunned the home crowd by scoring just 50 seconds after kickoff, and ex-Barcelona star Antoine Griezmann doubled the lead minutes later.

However, Barcelona responded emphatically, leveling the score before the 20-minute mark. Pedri’s composed finish and Pau Cubarsi’s header restored parity, before Inigo Martinez’s header completed the first-half turnaround.

Robert Lewandowski looked to have secured a crucial victory for Hansi Flick’s side when he added a fourth after a dazzling run by Lamine Yamal. Yet, Atletico refused to concede defeat. Marcos Llorente pulled one back late in the game, setting the stage for an electrifying finale.

In the third minute of stoppage time, Samuel Lino broke free down the left and squared the ball to substitute Sorloth, who slotted home to snatch a dramatic equalizer, leaving the tie delicately poised ahead of the second leg in April.

Pitting La Liga’s most potent attack against its strongest defense, the highly anticipated clash exceeded expectations, delivering an instant classic that sets up an enthralling conclusion in the return fixture.

Source: BBC

BDST: 0857 HRS, FEB 26, 2025
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