Barcelona forward targets redemption against Atletico Madrid’s Argentina stars after international brawl | OneFootball

Barcelona winger Raphinha, who has now been declared match fit, is gearing up for a high-stakes Copa del Rey semi-final clash with Atletico Madrid as he aim to settle scores with Los Rojiblancos’ Argentina players, reports AS.

This match holds particular significance for Raphinha, as it comes just a week after tensions flared during an international encounter between Argentina and Brazil, where the forward found himself at the centre of some controversy.

During last week’s international match at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires, Raphinha was subjected to verbal jabs and even physical shoves from Argentine players.

The tension escalated after a the forward’s conversation with Brazilian legend Romario during the leadup to the game, which seemed to rub some of the Argentine players the wrong way.

Tension will rise

Nahuel Molina, Giuliano Simeone, Rodrigo de Paul, and Julian Alvarez, who all played crucial roles in Argentina’s 4-1 victory over Brazil, later shared a private flight with Raphinha back home.

Raphinha’s words backfired against Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)

Despite the tensions on the pitch, football rivalries are typically left behind once the game is over, but for Raphinha, the rivalry is far from forgotten and is set to be rekindled on the field once again.

As Barcelona head into their crucial Copa del Rey tie, Raphinha’s desire for retribution against the Argentina stars will need to be channelled into performance rather than emotion.

Hansi Flick must play his role

Under Hansi Flick, known for his ability to motivate players during intense head-to-head battles, Raphinha will be encouraged to focus on the task at hand and let his football do the talking.

Flick’s guidance will be essential in helping the Brazilian winger stay composed and direct his energy into helping Barcelona advance to the final.

However, there is the lingering question of Raphinha’s fitness.

Despite having accumulated nearly 4,000 minutes of play this season (3,969 to be exact), the winger is approaching a critical point where he will need to dig deep and find that final burst of energy to finish the season strong.

Now, it remains to be seen whether his legs will hold up in what is shaping up to be an intense and physically demanding match.