Barça and Atlético de Madrid offered an epic match in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals. With a 4-4 draw that left emotions, controversy and also many doubts in Hansi Flick's team.
The German coach was satisfied with his players' ability to react.But not with the final result, as once again, Barça let the victory slip away in the final minutes.
Defensive errors were key, and Flick didn't hesitate to point out two players who, in his opinion, weren't up to the task. Although the team showed a very high level in attack, there were serious concentration lapses in defense that allowed Atlético to take advantage and force the draw.
Flick's Two Pointed Out
One of the main names on Flick's list was Alejandro Balde. The left-back was once again exposed in defense, something that has already happened in several important matches this season.
His physical conditions are extraordinary, and in attack, he is an essential weapon.But defensively, he still leaves too much space, allowing opponents to exploit his flank easily.
In the last league match against Atlético, he already struggled a lot with Antoine Griezmann and Nahuel Molina. On this occasion, Ángel Correa and Lino gave him another tough night.
Flick is aware of his potential, but he considers that his defensive fragility remains a problem.He isn't convinced that he can be the undisputed starting left-back without improving that aspect.
The other major one pointed out was Jules Koundé. The French center-back is having a great season, establishing himself as a key piece in the blaugrana defense.
However, against Atlético, he made uncharacteristic mistakes, and one of them ended in a goal. An inexplicable loss in ball exit allowed the red-and-white team to regain possession in a dangerous area, and Antoine Griezmann didn't forgive.
Pedri Didn't Hold His Tongue
After the match, Pedri González, one of the standout figures of the game for his brilliant performance, didn't hesitate to self-criticize. Without naming names, he made it clear that the team needs to improve in defense and be smarter in game management.
"Maybe we need to defend a little further back," stated the Canary Islander, in a message that seems directed at both Balde and Koundé.
Barça has suffered in several matches this season due to a lack of solidity in key moments.Flick has already made it clear that he needs to improve the defense if he wants to aim for titles.
The reality is that Flick doesn't have many alternatives for immediate changes in defense. The lack of a reliable left-back forces Balde to play almost everything. In Koundé's case, although Christensen could take his place, Flick still trusts him.
However, with the summer market in sight, it wouldn't be surprising if Barça seeks reinforcements in defense. Especially at left-back, where Flick wants a more reliable player in defensive tasks.
Flick's message has been clear: if the team wants to win titles, they can't concede so many goals so easily. Now, the players will have to show if they are capable of correcting these errors or if the coach will make more drastic decisions in the coming months.