In a thrilling final that showcased the fierce rivalry between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, Barcelona emerged victorious with a 3-2 win in the Copa del Rey final held at La Cartuja in Seville on April 26, 2025. This victory marks Barcelona's 32nd Copa del Rey title, further solidifying their dominance in Spanish football.
The match began with Barcelona taking the lead in the 28th minute when Pedri scored a stunning goal, curling the ball into the top corner from outside the box. This early strike set the tone for the first half, where Barcelona controlled the game, enjoying over 60% possession and creating several chances.
However, Real Madrid responded strongly after halftime. Manager Carlo Ancelotti made critical substitutions, bringing on Kylian Mbappé, Luka Modric, and Arda Güler shortly after the break. This tactical shift paid off as Mbappé equalized with a brilliant free-kick in the 56th minute that struck the post before finding the back of the net.
Just seven minutes later, Tchouameni put Real Madrid ahead, heading in from a corner kick, and the momentum seemed to swing in favor of the Merengues. With just a few minutes left in regulation, it appeared that Madrid would secure their 21st Copa del Rey title. However, Barcelona had other plans.
In the 84th minute, Ferran Torres capitalized on a defensive error from Madrid to score the equalizer, sending the match into extra time. The tension in the stadium was palpable as both teams battled for supremacy.
As the clock ticked down in the first half of extra time, it looked like the match might be decided by penalties. Yet, in a dramatic turn of events, Barcelona's Jules Koundé scored the decisive goal in the 116th minute. He intercepted a poor pass from Modric to Brahim and unleashed a powerful shot that beat Courtois, sending the Barcelona fans into a frenzy.
Despite a late red card for Rüdiger after he threw an object from the bench, the match concluded with Barcelona lifting the trophy. Goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen and defender Ronald Araújo proudly raised the Copa del Rey trophy, celebrating the club's triumph.
Barcelona's president, Joan Laporta, expressed his joy, stating, "This final is the essence of football. Our team showed resilience and skill to claim this title." Meanwhile, Pedro Sánchez, the President of the Spanish Government, congratulated Barcelona on social media, calling the match "electric" and a true spectacle for fans.
Real Madrid, despite the loss, showed commendable spirit and sportsmanship. They congratulated Barcelona on social media and even formed a guard of honor as they received their runner-up medals from King Felipe VI, who attended the match to present the trophy.
The match was notable not only for the high stakes but also for the intense atmosphere, with both sets of fans creating a vibrant backdrop for this historic encounter. The final was the 260th Clásico, and it was the first time these two giants faced off in Seville.
Barcelona's victory not only adds another trophy to their cabinet but also sets them up for a potential treble, as they now turn their attention to the upcoming Champions League semifinal. The team is eager to multiply their Copa del Rey success, eyeing their sixth Champions League title in Munich on May 31.
In summary, the Copa del Rey final was a testament to the enduring rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid. With skill, drama, and a thrilling finish, this match will be remembered as one of the classic encounters in football history.
