Lewandowski Out for Copa del Rey Semifinal Against Atlético Due to Eye Injury
Robert Lewandowski’s fractured eye socket sidelines him from Barcelona’s Copa del Rey semifinal second leg versus Atlético Madrid, challenging Barcelona’s comeback hopes.
- • Robert Lewandowski out of Copa del Rey semifinal due to fractured left eye socket.
- • Barcelona lost first leg 4-0 and must score to reach final.
- • Lewandowski has scored 14 goals in 32 matches this season, down from 42 last season.
- • Ferran Torres expected to lead Barcelona’s attack in Lewandowski’s absence.
- • Coach Hansi Flick emphasizes belief despite difficulties posed by multiple player absences.
Key details
FC Barcelona will face Atlético de Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinal without their key striker Robert Lewandowski, who is sidelined by a fractured left eye socket. The injury occurred late in Barcelona's recent match against Villarreal, and medical tests confirmed the fracture. This absence comes at a critical moment since Barcelona lost the first leg 4-0 and urgently needs to score to remain in contention for the final.
Lewandowski has struggled this season compared to his previous prolific campaign, recording only 14 goals in 32 matches, a significant drop from 42 goals in 52 matches last season. He had just returned to scoring after a three-week drought before the injury.
To fill the void, coach Hansi Flick plans to rely on Ferran Torres to lead the attack during Lewandowski's absence. Flick also faces additional challenges as several other players, including Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, Christensen, and Eric García (sent off in the first leg), will not be available for the match at Spotify Camp Nou.
Flick remains cautiously optimistic, acknowledging the uphill task ahead but stressing belief and resilience: "It’s difficult, but not impossible. We have to believe. We can turn it around in the second leg." Barcelona’s hopes now rest on mounting a strong comeback without their star striker, aiming to overcome the significant deficit and advance to the Copa del Rey final.
This article was translated and synthesized from Spanish sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
