FC Barcelona delivered a commanding performance, defeating Real Betis 5-1 at the Estadi Olímpic Lluis Companys during the Round of 16 of the Copa del Rey. This victory not only secures their place in the quarterfinals but also demonstrates their intent to reclaim the title they last won in 2021.
The match kicked off on January 15, 2025, and it was clear from the start who was going to take control. Barcelona came out with great energy, having recently triumphed over Real Madrid in the Supercopa de España, which had invigorated the squad under coach Hansi Flick.
It took just 15 minutes for the home side to strike first. Gavi slotted home the opener, firing the ball past Betis goalkeeper Fran Vieites after receiving a precise pass from Dani Olmo. That set the tone for what was to come, as Barcelona and their supporters relished the pace and flair displayed on the pitch.
Barcelona’s dominance continued, leading to Jules Koundé doubling their lead just before halftime. Following some sustained pressure and build-up play, Koundé's right-footed shot found the bottom corner. The score at the break stood at 2-0, showing the disparity between the two teams.
The second half didn’t bring any respite for Betis. Raphinha added to the scoreline shortly after the restart, netting Barcelona's third goal with a powerful left-footed shot. The relentless offensiveness was unyielding, with Barcelona exhibiting high levels of skill and physicality.
By the time Ferran Torres scored the fourth goal, it felt as if Barcelona was on the brink of world domination. The move was set up by Olmo's corner, with Torres finishing confidently. Real Betis had no answer to the relentless attack.
Despite the complete control displayed by Barcelona, Real Betis managed to score through Vitor Roque, who converted a penalty awarded for a foul committed by Koundé. This moment of respite for the visitors was short-lived, as Barcelona quickly regained their momentum.
Lamine Yamal capped off the scoring for Barcelona just before the final whistle, showcasing the young talent's growing importance to the squad. He slotted home after excellent work from Fermín López, bringing the score to a staggering 5-1.
After the final whistle, Barcelona's players celebrated their decisive win, knowing full well they had avenged their lackluster performances earlier this season. Their season had been inconsistent, yet this cup match could be the turning point they needed.
Hansi Flick expressed pride in his team’s performance post-match, emphasizing their collective character and resolve. He stated, “We are on the right path, and we need to keep building on this. Today, we showed what we are capable of.”
Real Betis, meanwhile, will need to reassess their strategy, as they currently sit mid-table without much momentum. Their last win before this match was against Villarreal weeks ago, and with just one win in their last eight league matches, the pressure will mount on coach Manuel Pellegrini.
This match marks the first time Barcelona and Real Betis have met at this stage of the Copa del Rey since 2011, when Barcelona won 5-0 over the then-second division side. It is clear from the current performance levels of both sides just how far Barcelona has come since, highlighting their desire to reclaim their dominance.
With this match behind them, Barcelona now looks forward to the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey, and fans will hope for more exhilarating performances as they seek to lift the prestigious trophy once again.