'We are very difficult to beat...' Pedri calls for improvements despite strong performance from Barcelona

Barcelona's midfield magician and wonderkid flexed their skills in a thrilling Copa Del Rey semifinal against Atletico Madrid. In an extraordinary first leg, Barcelona demonstrated resilience by overcoming a two-goal deficit to secure a dramatic 4-4 draw, despite having previously held a two-goal advantage.

The visitors stamped their authority, taking the lead within the first minute as Antoine Griezmann delivered a clever cross that found Julian Alvarez, who deftly tucked it home. 

Alvarez then reciprocated by assisting Griezmann, whose powerful shot proved too much for Wojciech Szczesny to handle.

Pedri brought Barcelona back into the match in the 19th minute, expertly slotting in Jules Kounde's cutback. Just two minutes later, Pau Cubarsi equalized with a bullet header from Raphinha's dangerous corner. Then, four minutes before halftime, Barcelona completed their commendable turnaround as an unmarked Inigo Martinez headed home Raphinha's fierce corner, making the score 3-2.

In the 74th minute, Lamine Yamal extended the lead to 4-2, weaving through Atletico's defence before assisting Robert Lewandowski, who easily tapped in from two yards out.

Atletico Madrid responded in the 84th minute with Marcus Llorente scoring their third goal, but Solroth dramatically equalized in the dying moments of injury time.

Pedri called for Improvement ahead of the reverse fixture 

Pedri asserted that the team must manage the game more effectively during the closing stages. 

He highlighted the need to maintain control in these situations, especially after encountering a similar scenario in the league meeting just two months ago. 

Pedri is confident that Barcelona will fight relentlessly to secure a spot in the final. He understands the challenges of facing Atletico on their home ground, where the pressure can be intense, but he is determined and optimistic about their chances.

"We have to learn from these things, especially having the ball, not throwing the line so much, for example. These are things we have to learn, but there's still the return leg to go and we'll go for it." Pedri said.

"It's clear that we're going to go for it. When we're doing well, we're very difficult to beat. The return leg will be difficult because Atlético always puts pressure on, especially at home." Pedri added.