In a thrilling encounter at La Cartuja, Barcelona triumphed over Real Madrid 3-2 in the Copa del Rey final, securing their record-extending 32nd title. The match, filled with drama and excitement, showcased the intense rivalry between these two giants of Spanish football.
The game kicked off with Barcelona asserting their dominance early on, controlling possession and creating several chances. Real Madrid faced a setback just nine minutes into the match when Ferland Mendy, making his return from a month-long injury layoff, went down after a challenge on Jules Kounde. Mendy, who had been sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained during a Champions League clash against Atletico, signaled for a substitution. Fran Garcia came on to replace him, but the shift did little to change the momentum as Barcelona continued to press forward.
Barcelona finally broke the deadlock in the 28th minute with a stunning goal from Pedri. The young midfielder intercepted a pass from Jude Bellingham, quickly transitioned the ball to Lamine Yamal, who made a brilliant run down the right flank. Yamal cut inside and delivered a perfect pass to Pedri, who unleashed a powerful strike from just outside the box, finding the top-left corner of Thibaut Courtois' goal. This remarkable goal not only gave Barcelona a 1-0 lead but also highlighted Pedri's impressive season, marking his sixth goal and seventh assist.
As the first half progressed, Barcelona maintained control, putting Madrid on the back foot. Despite a few attempts from Real Madrid, including a header from Kounde that was saved by Courtois, they struggled to find their rhythm. Carlo Ancelotti's side seemed disorganized, with players unsure of their positions and unable to mount a cohesive attack.
The second half saw Real Madrid come out with renewed energy, and they managed to equalize in the 55th minute through Kylian Mbappe. The French star curled in a sublime free-kick that left the Barcelona defense stunned. This goal shifted the momentum, and Madrid began to look more threatening.
Just when it seemed like Madrid had seized control, Aurelien Tchouameni headed Real Madrid into the lead in the 70th minute, putting them ahead 2-1. The goal came from a corner, showcasing Madrid's aerial threat and putting Barcelona on high alert.
However, Barcelona was not to be outdone. In a dramatic twist, Ferran Torres leveled the score in the 85th minute, forcing the match into extra time. Torres' goal came after a well-placed cross that he expertly converted, reigniting Barcelona's hopes and sending their fans into a frenzy.
As the match entered extra time, both teams fought fiercely for the advantage. The tension was palpable as chances came and went. Ancelotti received a yellow card for his animated protests to the officials, reflecting the high stakes and intensity of the match.
In the 116th minute, with the match seemingly destined for penalties, Barcelona's Jules Kounde emerged as the unlikely hero. The defender launched a stunning long-range shot that sailed past Courtois, clinching the victory for Barcelona and securing their place in history as Copa del Rey champions once again.
This win not only adds another trophy to Barcelona's cabinet but also keeps their hopes alive for an extraordinary treble this season. They currently lead La Liga by four points and are set to face Inter Milan in the Champions League semi-finals.
The Copa del Rey final was a showcase of skill, determination, and the fierce rivalry that defines El Clásico. As both teams look ahead to their upcoming challenges, this match will surely be remembered as a classic encounter in the storied history of Spanish football.
