FC Barcelona experienced a night full of emotions against Atlético Madrid in the second leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals. Hansi Flick’s side won 3-0 at the Spotify Camp Nou, but the comeback fell short after the 4-0 defeat in the first leg, leaving the Catalan side eliminated from the competition.
Yet beyond the disappointment of the result, the biggest blow came through injuries. Both Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde were forced to leave the pitch with muscular problems, setting off alarm bells inside the club.
Two injuries during Barça’s comeback push
The first setback arrived very early in the match. Koundé managed only 11 minutes before pulling up after a defensive action on the right flank. The French defender immediately signaled discomfort and had to be substituted.
Initial reports suggest a muscular issue in the hamstring area, specifically the biceps femoris. Inside the club there is cautious optimism, as the first assessments indicate the injury may not be long-term.
To replace him, Flick introduced Alejandro Balde. However, the situation quickly worsened as the young left-back also had to ask for a substitution later in the match after feeling a sharp muscular pain.
Serious concern over Balde’s injury
According to early medical information reported by RAC1 and journalist Javi Miguel, Balde could have suffered a tear in the biceps femoris. This type of injury typically sidelines players for several weeks depending on its severity.
Inside the coaching staff there is concern because Balde has previously dealt with similar muscular issues. The sensations after the match were reportedly not encouraging.
If the tear is confirmed, Balde could miss several important fixtures in the coming weeks, including key LaLiga matches and the upcoming clash against Athletic Club.
Flick forced to improvise defensively
The injuries added further difficulty to an already high-stakes match for Barcelona. Flick’s team was chasing an almost impossible comeback after the heavy defeat at the Metropolitano and for long periods they truly believed it could happen.
Barcelona dominated the game and created numerous chances, with standout performances from Lamine Yamal and Pedri. However, the intense physical effort eventually took its toll.
With both Koundé and Balde unavailable, Flick had to reshuffle his defense and finish the game with an improvised back line.
A worrying moment for Barça
These injuries arrive at a delicate stage of the season. Barcelona were already dealing with several absences, and the German coach may now face a shortage of defensive options.
Medical tests in the coming hours will determine the exact extent of both injuries. According to initial reports, both players could be sidelined for at least a month.
Inside the dressing room, the feeling is mixed: pride for the performance against Atlético, but deep concern about the physical price the team paid on a crucial night.
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