Barcelona’s aspirations for a dramatic Copa del Rey comeback have been dealt a severe blow with the confirmation that veteran striker Robert Lewandowski will be unavailable for the semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid. The Catalan giants are currently facing a daunting 4-0 aggregate deficit—initially reported as 4-1—following a disastrous first-leg performance at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. The 37-year-old forward’s absence from the return fixture at the Spotify Camp Nou was officially confirmed by the club’s medical staff on Sunday, March 1, 2026, following a high-impact collision during their recent domestic victory.
The injury occurred during Barcelona’s 4-1 triumph over Villarreal on Saturday, a match in which Lewandowski found the net despite sustaining a significant blow to the face in the 88th minute. Subsequent clinical evaluations have identified a fracture in the Pole’s left orbital bone, an injury that requires immediate rest to prevent further complications. While the striker had shown signs of returning to form, this latest physical setback forces Hansi Flick to re-evaluate his offensive strategy for one of the most critical nights of the season.
“Lewandowski got hurt in the game against Villarreal. Medical tests showed a fracture in his left eye socket. He won’t play against Atletico Madrid.”
Throughout the 2025/26 campaign, Lewandowski’s role has evolved into that of a high-value substitute, with Hansi Flick frequently preferring the mobility of Ferran Torres in the central attacking position. However, the veteran’s experience and clinical finishing were expected to be vital assets in overturning Atletico’s four-goal lead. With the legendary goalscorer now consigned to the stands, the burden of leadership in the final third shifts entirely to Torres, who will likely lead the line alongside Lamine Yamal and Raphinha on Tuesday night.
The loss of Lewandowski adds to a growing list of concerns for the La Liga leaders, who are also navigating the absence of key midfielders. Despite the daunting odds and the loss of their most decorated attacker, the club remains publicly optimistic about their chances of a “remontada.” For Flick, the challenge is now to engineer a historic tactical turnaround without his most lethal aerial threat, as Barcelona fights to keep their hopes of a domestic double alive in the absence of their number nine.
About the Author
