Hello everybody and welcome along to today's Marca in English Copa del Rey live blog for the Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona fixture.

Atletico host the Catalans at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Thursday evening for the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final clash, a meeting that promises drama and intensity between two of Spain's most storied clubs.

For Diego Simeone's side, this encounter carries extra weight: last season, Atletico fell at the same stage, with a thrilling 4-4 draw in the first leg followed by a narrow 1-0 defeat in the return fixture, allowing Barcelona to advance and ultimately lift the trophy.

The Rojiblancos come into the match on the back of mixed form. They stormed past Real Betis 5-0 in the quarter-finals in one of their most complete performances of the season, yet inconsistency has crept back in, with just two wins from their last five matches across all competitions, including a disappointing 1-0 LaLiga EA Sports loss to the same Betis side.

Sitting third in the league, Atletico's title hopes are slim, making the Copa del Rey a crucial opportunity for silverware this season.

Barcelona arrive in confident mood under Hansi Flick, boasting six consecutive wins in all competitions and a 3-0 triumph over Mallorca in their latest fixture. Sitting top of LaLiga EA Sports with 58 points, the Catalan giants have the division's best attack and have lifted the Spanish Super Cup this season.

They also carry a psychological edge, having won the last three meetings with Atletico, which could prove decisive in this high-stakes semi-final.

Stay with us for live updates, goals, and key moments from this thrilling Copa del Rey showdown.

Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona live latest text updates

What time does Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona start?

Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona kicks off at 21:00 CET - local time in Spain. So, US-based fans will find kick-off at 15:00 ET / 12 PT.

If you're watching in Britain or Ireland, it's a 20:00 start.

Where to watch Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona?

The Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona game will be shown on ITV 4 in Britain, which can also be tuned in to from Ireland.?In the US, then, ESPN Select and fuboTV will be covering Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona.