Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone attracted attention after an episode involving Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal during the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final. Following Ademola Lookman’s third goal for Atletico, Simeone was seen making a three-finger gesture in Yamal’s direction from the touchline.
This incident continues a pattern this season in which Simeone has become involved in on-pitch altercations. Earlier in the campaign he had a confrontation relating to Vinícius Júnior and subsequently issued an apology, accepting that his behaviour had been inappropriate and taking responsibility for it.
Sportingly, Atletico moved into a commanding position after a convincing win in the first leg, but the tie is not decided: the second leg is still to be played at the Camp Nou. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has not given up hope of a comeback, stressing that his side will fight, that they need their fans at Spotify Camp Nou, and that there is a realistic chance to overturn the deficit — even suggesting the team could aim to win each half 2-0.
