Copa del Rey Semifinals: Anticipation Builds Ahead of Draw

LAS ROZAS, Spain — The draw for the semifinals of the Copa del Rey is set for today at 1 p.m. CET, featuring four of Spain’s top football clubs: Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Atlético de Madrid, and Real Sociedad. Each team will brace for intense matchups as they vie for a spot in the final on April 26 at Estadio de La Cartuja in Sevilla.

According to Atlético Madrid captain Koke, who remembers winning the tournament in 2013, “We are a very competitive team, and this is a tournament we love. The draw will bring a tough opponent, but we’ll aim to enjoy the experience. Our strength lies in our defense, and we have skilled players who can make a difference upfront.”

Xabi Prieto, a former player for Real Sociedad, emphasized the achievement of reaching semifinals three times in the last five years. “It’s an impressive feat. Regardless of who we face, we will indeed encounter a very strong rival,” Prieto stated, recalling his emotional moments from the title in his playing days.

Others echo similar sentiments about the challenges ahead. Aihen Muñoz of Real Sociedad expressed, “Facing any of the top three teams will be difficult. We plan to give it our all and push toward the final. We are physically prepared for the challenges ahead.” He also reflected on the disappointment of winning the Copa without fans present in 2020, expressing hope for a future opportunity to claim the title with supporters.

Pédja Mijatović, who famously scored in Real Madrid’s seventh title victory, will participate as one of the draw’s ‘innocent hands.’ He shared his aspirations for the club, “While I couldn’t hold the Copa myself, I hope Real Madrid can achieve it again this year. All respect to the other teams, though. I am currently focused on my project with Partizan in Belgrade, which is demanding yet fulfilling.”

Today’s draw is particularly captivating as there is potential for fierce rivalries, including a possible Clásico between Barcelona and Madrid or a Madrid derby against Atlético. The semifinals will span two matches: the first leg will occur the week of February 26, while the second leg is slated for April 2, with the aggregate winner advancing to the final.

The anticipation surrounding the draw is palpable, as fans can view the event live on Teledeporte and YouTube. The stakes are high, and all eyes will be on which teams advance to further challenge one another in the upcoming matches.