‘A touch of recklessness and madness’ – Pedri gives Barcelona fans reason to believe ahead of Atletico clash

Barcelona midfielder Pedri has sounded a rallying cry ahead of Tuesday’s daunting Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Atlético Madrid, insisting that the Blaugrana’s “young squad” still believes it can overturn a four-goal deficit and keep alive the club’s dream of another final appearance.

Speaking to TV3 after completing back-to-back substitute cameos in league victories over Levante and Villarreal, the 21-year-old playmaker reminded supporters that Barça have already proved they can rattle the same opposition in a hurry.

“Last year against this same opponent, we managed to score four goals in seventy minutes,” Pedri said. “If any team can do it again, it’s us. We have a young squad, and that also means a touch of recklessness and madness. We believe in our chances until the very end.”

Hansi Flick’s side must score at least four unanswered goals at Camp Nou to advance, a scenario that would appear bleak to most observers. Yet Pedri, who is expected to make his first start since returning from injury, argues that the squad’s youthful fearlessness could be the wildcard that drags the tie back in Barcelona’s favour.

The Canary Islander has logged just over half an hour of competitive football across the past two matches, but says the minutes have been invaluable in restoring match sharpness.

“Good. I’ve played over half an hour in two matches, and I’m eager to play more,” he said. “These two matches have helped me get back into the rhythm of competition.”

With the tie hanging in the balance, Pedri is also counting on the famous Camp Nou atmosphere to provide an extra jolt.

“I’ll be waiting for you at Camp Nou,” he told fans. “I’m sure that together we’ll give it our all and win this semi-final.”

The Catalans face a mountain to climb, but their little magician has offered a reminder that belief, backed by a dash of daring, can still turn the improbable into reality.