After FC Barcelona and league leaders FC Girona said goodbye to two title candidates in the Spanish Cup, Atlético Madrid completed the semi-finals on Thursday evening (January 25, 2024).
Atlético prevailed 1-0 (0-0) against Sevilla FC in a quarter-final game that was hard fought until the last minute of stoppage time. The winning goal was scored by Dutch international striker Memphis Depay, who had recently been substituted, (79′).
In the first half, Atlético star Antoine Griezmann slipped while taking a penalty and chased the ball well over the goal. Diego Simeone’s team had to survive a moment of shock in the 95th minute when referee Jesús Gil Manzano awarded Sevilla a penalty. After VAR intervened, he took the penalty back.
Barcelona loses after extra time
Previously, two title candidates had to say goodbye: champions FC Barcelona and surprise team FC Girona. Barça and national team captain Ilkay Gündogan flew out of the cup with a 2:4 (2:2, 2:1) after extra time at Athletic Bilbao.
The 32-time cup winner fell behind in Bilbao a few seconds after kick-off by Gorka Guruzeta. Until the break, however, the guests temporarily turned the game around through Robert Lewandowski (26th) and Lamine Yamal (32nd).
But just shortly after the break, Ohian Sancet (49th) equalized for the Basques. In extra time, Inaki Williams (105.+2) and Nico Williams (120.+1) completed the coup for the hosts.
Quarterfinal Copa del Rey arrow right
Girona loses at Real Mallorca
FC Girona, the surprise team of the season so far, also said goodbye to the Copa del Rey with a 2-3 defeat at Real Mallorca. The league leaders squandered their chance of reaching the semi-finals in the first round. Goals from Cyle Larin (21st) and a brace from Abdon Prats (28th and 35th, hand penalty) meant the preliminary decision in favor of Mallorca.
Although Girona gained hope in the majority after a yellow-red card for Antonio Raillo (67th) with goals from Christian Stuani (71st) and Savio (90th + 6), the Basques ultimately had to accept their second defeat of the season in all competitions .
San Sebastian celebrates at Celta Vigo
Last Tuesday, Real Sociedad San Sebastián was the first team to reach the semi-finals with a 2-1 win at Celta Vigo. Cup defender Real Madrid failed in the round of 16 against local rivals Atlético.