Barcelona threatened an epic comeback against Atletico Madrid but fell short as the holders were eliminated from the Copa del Rey at the semi-final stage following a dramatic 4-3 aggregate defeat.
Two goals from Marc Bernal, either side of a Raphinha penalty, gave the home side hope of a remarkable turnaround, but they were unable to score a fourth to force extra time despite late pressure.
Diego Simeone’s side held firm and will face the winner of Real Sociedad and Athletic Club, who meet in the other last-four tie on Wednesday, in the final.
Barcelona faced a difficult task after being beaten 4-0 in the first leg last month as they aimed to reach the final of the competition they have won 32 times.
Hansi Flick’s side started with intent, pressing the visitors from the outset and testing Juan Musso repeatedly.
Raphinha went close early when he fired into the side netting as Barcelona’s high press disrupted Atleti’s rhythm.
Ferran Torres then had two attempts on goal before Alejandro Balde, who came on as an early substitute for the injured Jules Kounde, tested Musso.
The opener arrived in the 29th minute after Lamine Yamal’s superb run down the left created space, and the teenage star crossed for 18-year-old Marc Bernal to tap home after being left unmarked.
The goal ignited hope at the Spotify Camp Nou for a potential comeback.
Barcelona had beaten Atleti at this stage last season on their way to winning the competition, but they needed something extraordinary to keep their title defense alive.
Antoine Griezmann was Atleti’s brightest spark, hitting the post before the offside flag was raised, while Ademola Lookman missed a good opportunity.
In first-half stoppage time, Pedri was upended by Clement Lenglet in the area, and Raphinha converted the resulting penalty, sending Musso the wrong way.
After the break, former Manchester City attacker Julian Alvarez forced Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia into an early save before Marc Bernal tested Musso again.
Marcus Rashford came off the bench as the hosts chased more goals, but it was Marc Bernal who scored next, turning in Joao Cancelo’s cross with 18 minutes remaining, marking his fourth goal in four games.
Flick’s side continued to press late, but their closest effort was Gerard Martin’s curling shot, which went just over the bar.
