In a highly anticipated match, FC Barcelona will face Atlético de Madrid in the semifinals of the Copa del Rey. An unexpected development leading up to the game is the absence of star striker Robert Lewandowski from the starting lineup. This decision by head coach Hansi Flick has raised eyebrows, especially given Lewandowski’s current form.
Robert Lewandowski’s Tactical Absence
Unlike previous matches, Lewandowski’s exclusion is not due to injury or fitness issues. Instead, it is a strategic choice aimed at enhancing Barcelona’s midfield control and attacking fluidity. By leaving Lewandowski on the bench, Flick has opted for a more dynamic attacking approach.
- Key Players: Ferran Torres will lead the attack, emphasizing mobility and pressure on the ball.
- Midfield Strategy: The team will feature a densely populated midfield to dominate possession.
- Emerging Talents: Lamine Yamal is expected to be a vital source of creativity and threat from the wing.
Barcelona’s Expected Formation
Without Lewandowski in the lineup, Barcelona’s formation will be as follows:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | García |
| Defense | Koundé, Cubarsí, Eric, Baldé |
| Midfield | Fermín, De Jong, Olmo, Casadó |
| Attack | Yamal, Ferran |
Second-Half Strategy
While Lewandowski will start on the bench, he remains a crucial part of Flick’s game plan. The coaching staff intends to utilize his goal-scoring prowess in the second half. The objective is to tire out Atlético’s defense with mobility, with the potential to introduce Lewandowski later, should the need arise for a more physical presence in the box.
Match Details
- Match: Atlético de Madrid vs FC Barcelona
- Date: February 12, 2026
- Location: Estadio Metropolitano
- Stadium Capacity: 72,000 spectators
Kick-off Times Globally
- Spain: 21:00
- Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay: 17:00
- Bolivia, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Venezuela: 16:00
- Colombia, Peru, Panama, US (ET), Ecuador: 15:00
- Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras: 14:00
Fans can track all Copa del Rey updates, including live scores and news, on El-Balad.
