Griezmann's Copa Crusade: The Principito Proving Pivotal in Atleti's Cup Quest
Antoine Griezmann's stellar Copa del Rey form could be crucial as Atlético Madrid prepare to face Barcelona in a high-stakes semifinal first leg at the Metropolitano.
Antoine Griezmann has transformed this season’s Copa del Rey into his personal playground, with the Frenchman’s brilliance carrying Atlético Madrid through the competition.
The Cup King
Four goals in three matches tells only half the story of Griezmann’s Copa impact. From his match-winning double against Atlético Baleares in Simeone’s men’s competition opener to that stunning free-kick thunderbolt at Riazor – the only goal in a tight affair – the Frenchman has been absolutely mustard.
His masterclass against Real Betis at La Cartuja, including another goal, might represent his most complete performance of the entire campaign. With a scoring rate of 1.33 goals per Copa match, he’s been the difference maker Atleti desperately needed.
Barcelona Beckons
Thursday’s semifinal first leg against Barcelona at the Metropolitano represents Atlético’s biggest challenge yet. Getting a positive result before the Camp Nou return in three weeks (with the Bruges double-header sandwiched between) hinges significantly on Griezmann maintaining his cup form.
The Camp Nou holds special significance for El Principito, who spent two seasons in “exile” there before returning to what he’s always considered his true home. Interestingly, it was at Barcelona where he claimed his only Copa del Rey title – a campaign where he proved decisive in the quarterfinals with two goals and two assists against Granada before scoring in the final victory over Athletic Club.
Trophy Drought
Despite his individual brilliance, Griezmann hasn’t lifted silverware during his second Atlético spell. His last trophy with the Rojiblancos came in 2018, securing both the Europa League and UEFA Super Cup against Real Madrid.
With Atleti trailing Barcelona and Real Madrid by 13 and 12 points respectively in La Liga, the Copa represents their most realistic shot at domestic glory. The Champions League remains another possibility, though Club Bruges looms as their immediate European obstacle.
Top Marksman
Griezmann currently stands as the highest scorer among the four semifinalists, though Osasuna’s Raúl García leads the overall Copa scoring charts with seven goals, followed by Riquelme and former Alavés forward Carlos Vicente.
With 11 goals across all competitions this season, Griezmann shares Atlético’s top scorer status with Julián Álvarez, though the Argentine’s recent drought has placed even more responsibility on the Frenchman’s shoulders. Alongside Alexander Sorloth and Ademola Lookman, Griezmann must continue his scoring form if Atleti are to go all the way.
For now, this Copa del Rey belongs to El Principito – and Atlético fans will be hoping his magic continues against his former employers.