In the early hours of February 13th, Antoine Griezmann attracted attention as Atletico Madrid thrashed Barcelona 4-0 in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final.
Griezmann's smile has sparked controversy.
At the Metropolitano Stadium, Atletico started with great speed and completely dominated. Griezmann played a pivotal role in the home team's style of play. He was the one who increased the score to 2-0 with a superb finish, putting Barcelona in a difficult position. The goal was a direct blow to the visitors' morale, opening up a one-sided game in favor of the capital's representatives.
After the break, having completed his task and been substituted off the field, Griezmann continued to attract the attention of television cameras. While Barcelona struggled to defend against the relentless attacks and were unable to find an equalizer, Griezmann was seen comfortably chatting and smiling with his teammates.
The moment quickly went viral, sparking mixed reactions. For Atletico fans, it was a moment of triumph. But for Barcelona supporters, that smile was like salt rubbed into the wound as their team was trailing by four goals.
For Griezmann personally, he continues to be the driving force in Atletico's style of play. Since the beginning of the season, the French striker has scored 12 goals and provided 1 assist. Coach Diego Simeone's team still has a chance to compete in the Champions League, La Liga, and is on the verge of winning the Copa del Rey.
Conversely, the heavy 0-4 defeat against Atletico left Barcelona facing the risk of an early exit. In the second leg, they would have to stage a crazy comeback if they wanted to reach the final.