Barcelona Triumphs Over Real Madrid in a Thrilling Copa del Rey Final
SEVILLE, Spain — In a match that will be remembered for its drama and intensity, Jules Koundé emerged as the unexpected hero for Barcelona. The Catalan giants came from behind to defeat Real Madrid 3-2 after extra-time at La Cartuja on Saturday, clinching the Copa del Rey in a grueling Clásico showdown.
With the match seemingly headed for penalties, Koundé intercepted a stray pass in the 116th minute and delivered a low shot into the bottom corner, securing what Barça hopes will be the first trophy of a potential treble this season.
Earlier, Real Madrid had staged a comeback of their own. Substitute Kylian Mbappé and Aurélien Tchouaméni each scored within seven second-half minutes to nullify Pedri‘s first-half goal.
However, Ferran Torres rounded Thibaut Courtois in the 84th minute to push the game into extra-time. This came after referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea overturned his initial decision to award a stoppage-time penalty for Raúl Asencio‘s challenge on Raphinha.
Barcelona is now setting its sights on LaLiga and the UEFA Champions League, although Real Madrid may have a say in the league outcome. The two teams are set to meet again at the Olympic Stadium on May 11 in a potentially title-deciding match.
Referee Drama Peaks with 96th-Minute Penalty Call
The final was not just a battle on the pitch but also a test of nerves for the officials. Referee Bengoetxea and VAR Pablo González Fuertes were under intense scrutiny, especially from a Real Madrid perspective. This was fueled by pre-game tensions and Madrid’s criticism of the officiating.
In the first half, there were no major refereeing controversies, but several decisions were hotly contested. In the 16th minute, the ball struck Federico Valverde’s hand inside the box, but De Burgos dismissed Barcelona’s penalty appeals. Barcelona was also unhappy with several other decisions, including a yellow card for Tchouaméni instead of a red for a foul on Dani Olmo.
The real drama unfolded in added time. In the 96th minute, Raphinha appeared to be fouled by Raul Asencio, and a penalty was awarded. However, after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was overturned, much to the frustration of Barcelona’s players and fans.
Despite Koundé’s extra-time winner, Real Madrid’s players were left fuming at the referee. Rudiger was dismissed for throwing an object onto the pitch, and Lucas Vázquez received a red card as well. The controversy surrounding refereeing decisions in Spain is unlikely to dissipate anytime soon.
Flick’s Clásico Domination
Under Hansi Flick, Barcelona has turned the tables on Real Madrid, winning all three Clásicos this season. This victory was particularly sweet given the way it unfolded. Barcelona has shown resilience throughout the season, coming from behind to win matches against teams like Benfica, Atlético Madrid, and Celta Vigo.
Barcelona dominated the early stages of the match, with Pedri’s sublime strike giving them the lead in the 28th minute. Despite facing intense pressure from Madrid in the second half, Barcelona responded well to going behind.
- Flick made strategic changes, removing left-back Gerard Martín and bringing in Gavi to inject energy into the team.
- Torres and Fermín López had chances to score, but it was Koundé who sealed the victory with his historic goal.
Flick’s impact on the team has been remarkable, and there is a growing belief that Barcelona could achieve a treble this season. Their next challenge is the Champions League semifinal against Internazionale, and they hold a four-point lead over Madrid in LaLiga.
Off the Bench, Mbappé Changes the Game
Kylian Mbappé’s presence on the bench was a surprise, given his recent ankle injury. However, his introduction in the second half changed the dynamics of the game. Madrid improved immediately, with Vinicius and Mbappé creating chances.
Mbappé’s free kick in the 70th minute was a moment of brilliance, showcasing his extraordinary talent. Despite Madrid’s struggles this season, Mbappé remains a key player with the potential to succeed at the club.
Barça’s Fearless Youngsters
Barcelona’s young players have been fearless throughout the season, and this match was no exception. Pedri, Yamal, and Cubarsí played crucial roles in the victory. Pedri’s goal was a testament to his growing reputation, while Yamal’s assists highlighted his creativity.
Torres, despite being one of the more experienced players, has also been instrumental in Barcelona’s success. His goal in the final was his sixth in the Copa del Rey, making him the competition’s top scorer.
What Next for Real Madrid?
Real Madrid’s defeats to Barcelona have defined their season. Despite a strong second-half performance in the final, they fell short once again. The team remains in the LaLiga title race, but their chances of overtaking Barcelona are slim.
With five games left, including a crucial Clásico on May 11, Madrid must regroup and focus on finishing the season strongly. However, if they fail to win a major trophy, changes could be on the horizon, including a potential managerial change.
Originally Written by: Alex Kirkland,Sam Marsden
