MADRID: Barcelona will have to make a deal with Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-finals when Real Madrid meet Real Sociedad.
It is the first time since 2014 that Spain’s top three teams have advanced to the last four, with Real Sociedad also in the group.
Barcelona, who have a record of 31 titles and last lifted the trophy in 2021, are scheduled to host Diego Simeone’s squad for the first leg of the semi-final before visiting their opponents at the Metropolitano stadium.
Atletico, who are second in La Liga and one point ahead of the Catalan giants, last lifted the trophy in 2013 and have won the title 10 times.
Spanish and European champions Real Madrid, who have a record 20 titles, are scheduled to visit San Sebastian for the first leg before hosting Real Sociedad afterwards.
Real Sociedad have only lifted the trophy twice, most recently in the 2020 edition.
The first semi-final is scheduled to take place on February 25 and 26, while the return leg is scheduled for April 1 and 2.