Barca-Real showdown for King's Cup brewing

Barcelona and Real Madrid are on course for a King's Cup final showdown after Spain's two dominant clubs recorded convincing home wins in their semifinal first legs on Wednesday.

Real thumped holder Atletico Madrid 3-0 at the Bernabeu, gaining a measure of revenge for the 2-1 defeat in last year's final at the same stadium, while record winner Barca beat 10-man Real Sociedad 2-0 at Nou Camp.

Barca and Real last met in the final in 2011, when a Cristiano Ronaldo header in extra-time secured the trophy for the Madrid club, and if they successfully negotiate next week's return legs they will meet on April 19 at a yet-to-be determined venue.