Atlético Madrid earned a 4-0 win over Barcelona in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals, with the Argentine players playing a central role in the result.
The scoring opened early after an own goal by Eric García in the sixth minute. From there, Atlético took control, and the Argentine presence began to grow in influence. Nahuel Molina was directly involved in the second goal, providing the assist for Antoine Griezmann in the 14th minute after a well-worked team move down the right flank.
Julián Álvarez was active from the start. In the 33rd minute, he contributed with an assist, setting up Ademola Lookman to make it 3-0. Álvarez showed awareness inside the box and delivered a precise pass that allowed his teammate to finish comfortably.
Just before halftime, the Argentine forward ended his scoring drought in 2026. After receiving a pass from Lookman outside the area, Álvarez struck a powerful shot that beat the goalkeeper and made it 4-0. The goal marked his first of the calendar year and capped a strong individual performance that included both a goal and an assist.
Giuliano Simeone was also involved throughout the first half, making runs in behind and helping stretch Barcelona’s defensive line. His movement created space and contributed to Atlético’s attacking rhythm during the opening stages.
In goal, Juan Musso delivered a solid performance. Although Barcelona attempted to respond in the second half, Musso made key saves to preserve the clean sheet. A goal by Barcelona was ruled out after a lengthy review for offside, helping Atlético maintain their advantage.
Thiago Almada entered the match in the 73rd minute, adding fresh energy in midfield as Atlético managed the final stages of the game.
With the 4-0 win, Atlético Madrid take a significant advantage into the second leg, scheduled for March 3 at Camp Nou. The Argentine players were decisive in the first meeting, with Álvarez leading the way in one of the team’s most complete performances of the season.
I appreciate Prestiani’s talent, but I am uncertain if Scaloni will select Barco and Prestiani for the World Cup, given their height, especially considering Lisandro Martinez and Tagliafico are already shorter defenders.
Nicolas Capaldo has been playing on the right side of a back-three defense for Hamburger. He was switched to this new position at the beginning of the season. He has also played as a pure right-back in a couple of matches where he performed very well. Although his team isn’t in great form, he could be a reliable right-back for Argentina, given his energy, stamina, tackling, ball interceptions, and flexibility. In a recent interview, he stated that he is very comfortable on his new position. Today, he was on the scoresheet in Hamberger’s 3-2 win against Union Berlin.
Or we can use Simeone
Prestiani has cemented his place in the starting XI of Benfica. He has played around 1,250 minutes this season so far. Man, if he only was as tall as Mantantuono. The kid is on his way of becoming a world-class player. I don’t think Scaloni will eventually select him for the WC. He prefers Mastantuono whose contribution will be ZERO based on his performance for Madrid.
Scaloni will use him,Mastantuono isn’t playing at football