Atlético of The colchonero team defends a large 4-0 advantage obtained in the first game at Riyadh Air Metropolitano. Thiago Almada, who entered the second half of the first match and contributed with a creative presence, represents an important option on the bench for Diego Simeone to manage the game and explore counterattacks in search of a place in the final.
The Argentine, number 11, arrived at Atlético in July 2025 and has accumulated participation in LaLiga and Copa del Rey. Ele entered the first leg in the 73rd minute, replacing Ademola Lookman, and helped maintain control of the midfield. Sua versatility as an attacking midfielder or winger allows tactical variations to contain the pressure expected from Barcelona.
Where to watch and stream online
Live coverage takes place on ESPN 4 on pay TV and Disney+ on streaming on Brasil. Na Espanha, DAZN and Movistar+ broadcast the duel with options on multiple digital platforms. The signal begins with pre-game and commentary minutes before kickoff.
Fans watch replays and highlights immediately after the final whistle. HD transmission makes it easier to observe details such as Thiago Almada entries on the field.
Likely lineups and role of Almada
Barcelona: Joan García; Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Ronald Araújo, Alejandro Balde; Pedri, Marc Bernal, Fermín López; Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Raphinha. Técnico: Hans-Dieter Flick.
Barcelona handles key injury and suspension absences, including Lewandowski, De Jong, Gavi, Christensen and Eric García. The Catalan team is betting on speed and high pressure to attempt an unlikely comeback.
Atlético de Madrid: Juan Musso; Nahuel Molina, José Giménez, Dávid Hancko, Matteo Ruggeri; Marcos Llorente, Koke, Giuliano Simeone, Ademola Lookman; Julián Álvarez, Alexander Sørloth. Técnico: Diego Simeone.
Thiago Almada starts on the bench, ready to join as a creative midfielder or winger. Johnny Cardoso remains out due to injury, but the squad has options to maintain defensive solidity and explore spaces.
Thiago Almada’s performance in the season
Thiago Almada records contributions in 2025/26 with goals and assists in LaLiga and cups. Ele scored in previous Copa del Rey games, including in the rout of Betis in the quarterfinals. Sua arrival at Atlético brought versatility to the colchonero attack.
The player stands out for his dribbling, precise passing and ability to create chances. Ele accumulates progressive minutes and appears as a tactical alternative in decisive moments.
History and curiosities with Almada
Almada entered the first game of the semi-final and helped preserve the advantage with passing and movement. Sua debut in the competition for Atlético included participation in offensive moves. The team is looking for its first Copa del Rey final since 2013.
The Argentine, world champion in 2022, forms offensive options with Álvarez and Lookman. Colchonera fans value their technical quality for knockout decisions.
Arbitration and weather forecasting
The Federação Espanhola referee strictly applies rules in intense duels. Experienced Equipe guarantees fluidity and impartiality throughout the 90 minutes.
In Barcelona, the weather at night shows partly cloudy skies with temperatures between 8°C and 17°C. Sem rain is predicted, the pitch allows for technical and fast play.
Competition tickets and artillery
Tickets for Camp Nou were sold out in anticipation of the decisive clash. The Blaugrana fans fill the stadium despite the disadvantage.
In the artillery of Copa of Rey, Thiago Almada contributed with goals in previous phases. Ele shares prominence with Álvarez, Lookman and Griezmann in Atlético’s attack.
Guesses and expectations with Almada
Analysts project Atlético managing upside with strategic input of Almada. Placares minimums like 1-0 or 2-1 favor the visitors. The Argentine can decide with an assist or a goal on a counterattack.
Expectations focus on control of the midfield. Almada comes in to add creativity and help with classification.
