It was a nervy finish in the end, but Barcelona were full value for their 1-0 victory against Atletico Madrid.

The slender margin of the win makes a path to an El Clasico final in the Copa del Rey all the sweeter, and it continued the epic run which has seen Hansi Flick’s side remain unbeaten in 2025.

To stop the hosts from getting a shot on target in the entire game evidences the strength of Barca’s performance, with a number of players deserving of the plaudits.

Consistent purposeful running at the heart of Los Colchoneros defence from Frenkie de Jong meant that Atleti’s midfield were on the back foot for long periods, whilst Pedri’s unbelievable trickery with the ball ensured that Barca kept possession for the most part.

Ferran Torres once again justified his start with what turned out to be the winning goal thanks to another sumptuous assist from Lamine Yamal.

If there was one thing that spoiled the spectacle it was how card happy the match official was, and it’s a wonder that no player from either side saw red, given how frequently the yellow card was getting an airing at the Metropolitano.

Hansi Flick again decided to be brave and ensure his side played their usual high line, often pinning Diego Simeone’s XI back in their own half.

All the while that the game remained at just 0-1 of course, Atleti had every chance of getting back in the game.

Thanks to the work rate of both Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez, that was never going to happen, and even when Ronald Araujo unsettled the equilibrium in the back four, there was still no way through for the likes of Julian Alvarez, Antoine Greizmann or Alexander Sorloth.

Resorting to the darker arts looked to have become a theme as the game wore on too, with both sides ensuring that a niggly little foul or two knocked their opponent out of their stride.

Barca aren’t necessarily known for so doing, but as long as it’s within the rules of the game then using it as a fall-back option isn’t the worst idea in the world.

Real Madrid certainly won’t be getting excited about facing a side that they know can play them off the park, and if Barca continue to add some steel to their silky match play, we’re in for a hell of a final.