Sports News of Thursday, 5 March 2026

Source: www.mynigeria.com

Barcelona hit by two major injuries after Copa del Rey elimination

Barcelona defenders Alejandro Balde and Joules Kounde Barcelona defenders Alejandro Balde and Joules Kounde

Spanish champions FC Barcelona have been dealt a major injury setback after defenders Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde picked up injuries during their clash with Atlético Madrid.

The two full-backs were forced off during Barcelona’s impressive 3-0 victory over Atletico in the second leg of their Copa del Rey semifinal at the Spotify Camp Nou on Tuesday.

Initial reports suggest both players could be sidelined for at least four weeks.

The injuries add to Barcelona’s growing list of absentees, with key players such as Andreas Christensen, Gavi and Robert Lewandowski already unavailable.

Kounde and Balde are now expected to miss Barcelona’s upcoming matches in the UEFA Champions League.

According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Balde could spend longer on the sidelines than the French defender.

WDN