Atlético Madrid vs Barcelona Expected to Be One of the Highest-Attendance Matches in Metropolitano Stadium History

Madrid media report that the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final between Atlético Madrid and Barcelona is expected to be one of the highest-attendance matches in the history of the Metropolitano Stadium.

Atlético Madrid’s attendance record at the Metropolitano stands at 70,112 fans, set on 29 September 2024 during the derby against Real Madrid, when Simeone’s side was backed by over 70,000 supporters. The midweek Copa del Rey clash against Barcelona is set to be one of the best-attended home games in the Rojiblancos’ history. With several days to go until kick-off, only 2,000 tickets remain unsold.

Since drawing Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semi-finals, Atlético have sold 15,000 additional tickets for the tie against Hansi Flick’s side. Despite suffering two consecutive home defeats, fans are fully committed to this cup knockout tie. The match is expected to break the stadium’s Copa del Rey attendance record, previously set in January 2024 against Real Madrid, when 67,623 fans attended.

Seven of the top 10 best-attended games at the Metropolitano are derbies against Real Madrid (one in the Champions League), two are European matches against Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan (this season), and one is a La Liga fixture against Barcelona.

The semi-final is increasingly likely to enter the stadium’s top 10 for attendance. Atlético have confirmed the 15,000 extra ticket sales, noting that 85% of season-ticket holders have Copa del Rey access, but only for one home cup match this season.

Unlike last season, this tie is a first leg, crucial for Atlético ahead of the return at Camp Nou. Atlético aim to bounce back from two straight home defeats, a situation that has only happened twice since moving to the new stadium in 2017 — and on both occasions, Simeone’s side won the third game.

Top 10 Highest-Attendance Matches at Metropolitano Stadium