Former Crystal Place flop Alexander Sorloth scored in the dying seconds to rescue Atletico Madrid against Barcelona.
The La Liga giants played out a thrilling 4-4 in the Copa Del Rey semi-final first leg at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on Tuesday evening. Diego Simeone’s men raced into a 2-0 lead in the opening six minutes. Former Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez grabbed the first and assisted Antione Griezmann for the second.
But Barcelona stormed back with two goals in two minutes from Pedri and Pau Curbasi,before Inigo Martinez gave the hosts a half-time lead. Magical skills from Lamine Yamal set up Robert Lewandowski for the fourth and the first leg win looked all but secure for Hansi Flick’s side. But there was a final twist, as Marcus Llorente made it 4-3 and, with seconds left, substitute Alexander Sorloth was in the right place at the right time to tap home the dramatic equaliser.
The Norwegian striker joined Crystal Palace for £9m in 2018 but struggled to make an impression, scoring just once in 20 appearances before a successful spell at Villarreal earned him his dream move to Atletico Madrid in the summer. Atelti fans were quick to praise his impact from the bench on X.
One posted: Thank you Alexander Sorloth… Always there whenever needed, tough draw but you deserve all the recognition in the world for bringing us from trenches and a possible loss.”
Another wrote: “King of the North, Alexander Sorloth.”
One other said: “Alexander Sorloth is one of the most clutch subs this season
The Copa Del Rey final second legs will take place in April.