Hansi Flick expressed feeling “disappointed but proud” after Barcelona nearly staged a remarkable comeback against Atlético Madrid on Tuesday, only to fall short of reaching the Copa del Rey final.
With two goals from Marc Bernal and a penalty converted by Raphinha, Barça secured a 3-0 victory at Spotify Camp Nou; however, they were eliminated with an aggregate score of 4-3 after suffering a four-goal defeat in the first leg last month.
Atlético Madrid will now advance to the final in Seville this April, where they will face the winner of the Basque derby between Real Sociedad and Athletic Club.
“We are disappointed, but we can take pride in the performance we delivered,” Flick mentioned during the post-match press conference. “It was an incredible game for us, and we created numerous opportunities to score even more goals. In the end, it didn’t go our way, and we have to accept that.”
Fermín López, along with Raphinha, Bernal, Ferran Torres, and Lamine Yamal, all had early opportunities as Barça started strong, registering 13 shots on goal in the first half.
Bernal opened the scoring in the 29th minute after converting a brilliant cross from Yamal. Raphinha then doubled the lead with a penalty right before halftime, prompting the home crowd to chant “Yes we can.”
A second goal from Bernal set the stage for a tense final 20 minutes, but Barça was unable to net a fourth goal, which would have taken the tie to extra time. Their best chance came in stoppage time when Gerard Martín shot over the bar.
“This level is usually the standard we aim for, and we need to replicate it in every match,” Flick commented. “It’s not guaranteed; it requires hard work.”
Bernal, one of the standout performers of the night, has now scored four goals in his last five matches, showing signs of returning to form after over a year sidelined due to an ACL injury.
“Marc delivered an outstanding performance today,” Flick praised. “This is the mentality I expect from him as he’s a fantastic talent. His game today, particularly in buildup, was exceptional, truly amazing to observe.”
Barcelona’s strong showing was marred by injuries to Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde. Koundé was replaced in the first half, and Balde followed suit shortly after the break.
Both players are set to undergo tests on Thursday to assess the extent of their injuries.
“They’re both out,” Flick informed when asked about their condition. “I can’t say how long they’ll be sidelined; we’ll have to wait until tomorrow for more clarity.”
“Everyone gave their all; they put in more than 100%. The fans are likely feeling a mix of happiness and disappointment, which is understandable. Each player fought with all their heart for this club, and it’s wonderful to witness.”
Barcelona’s exit from the Copa del Rey means that Flick will be without a domestic trophy in Spain for the first time since taking on the role of Barcelona coach in 2024.
In his debut season, he clinched LaLiga, the Copa, and the Spanish Supercopa, adding another Supercopa in Saudi Arabia in January.
Nonetheless, Barça still have plenty to aim for this season. They currently hold a four-point lead at the top of LaLiga and will face Newcastle United in the Champions League round of 16 next week.
“We have a long journey ahead in La Liga and the Champions League,” Flick stated. “Newcastle is a formidable opponent on the horizon. Our schedule includes matches every three to four days, which will be our focus in the coming weeks and months.
“We aim to participate in as many Champions League matches as possible, so we need to approach it with that mindset: recovery, concentrating on our responsibilities. The quality we demonstrated today is genuine and remarkable. I am immensely proud of my team, and it’s incredible to see.”