The stage was set for an electrifying Copa del Rey final as FC Barcelona faced off against their arch-rivals Real Madrid on April 26, 2025, at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville. Kickoff was scheduled for 22:00, and fans were buzzing with anticipation for what promised to be a thrilling encounter between two of football’s giants.
Barcelona entered the match riding a wave of confidence, having recently secured a 4-0 victory against Real Madrid in La Liga just a few months prior. Moreover, they were on the hunt for their 32nd Copa del Rey title, while also eyeing a historic treble this season, having already claimed the Supercopa de España earlier in January. Under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick, the Catalans were determined to assert their dominance once again.
On the other hand, Real Madrid, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, faced a challenging season. Having been eliminated from the UEFA Champions League by Arsenal with a 1-5 aggregate score, their hopes rested heavily on this cup competition. With a four-point deficit in La Liga, the Copa del Rey was their last chance to salvage a disappointing campaign. The pressure was palpable, especially with Ancelotti’s future hanging in the balance.
As the match began, Barcelona quickly established control, showcasing their attacking prowess. The first breakthrough came in the 28th minute when Pedri found the back of the net with a stunning strike, sending the Barcelona fans into a frenzy and putting them ahead 1-0.
However, the tide began to turn early in the second half. Ancelotti made crucial substitutions, including the introduction of Kylian Mbappé, who had been nursing an injury. His presence immediately injected life into the Madrid attack. In the 70th minute, Mbappé equalized with a beautifully executed free kick, leveling the score at 1-1 and silencing the Barcelona supporters.
Just seven minutes later, Real Madrid took the lead for the first time in the match when Aurélien Tchouaméni scored from a corner, making it 2-1. It seemed as though the momentum had shifted entirely in favor of the Merengues, and they appeared poised to clinch the trophy.
Yet, Barcelona refused to back down. In a dramatic turn of events, Ferran Torres equalized in the 84th minute after a crucial error from Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who misjudged a long ball, allowing Torres to slot it home and bring the score to 2-2.
With the match tied, both teams braced for extra time. The tension was palpable, and every moment was filled with excitement. In the 116th minute, it was Jules Koundé who emerged as the hero for Barcelona, scoring the decisive goal that put them ahead 3-2. The Barcelona bench erupted in jubilation as they edged closer to yet another trophy.
Despite Real Madrid’s valiant efforts to fight back, including a late surge led by Mbappé, the Catalans held firm to secure their victory. The match concluded with a final score of 3-2, marking Barcelona's triumph in the Copa del Rey final.
Ferran Torres was named man of the match for his outstanding performance, contributing significantly to Barcelona's win. The victory not only added another trophy to Barcelona’s illustrious cabinet but also kept their hopes alive for a quadruple this season, with the Champions League and La Liga still on the horizon.
In the aftermath of the match, tensions remained high, particularly given the controversies surrounding the officiating. Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea had a challenging night, with both teams expressing their frustrations at various points during the match. The atmosphere leading up to the final had been charged, with Real Madrid TV broadcasting critical videos of the referee, leading to accusations of undue pressure.
Barcelona’s coach Hansi Flick addressed the media post-match, emphasizing the importance of respect in football despite the intense rivalry. “It’s about the game and the respect we owe each other,” he said. “We want to keep the focus on football and the joy it brings.”
As for Real Madrid, this defeat further complicates their season. With their elimination from the Champions League and now the Copa del Rey, the team must regroup quickly as they look to rebound in La Liga, where they still have a chance to challenge for the title.
The Copa del Rey final was a testament to the enduring rivalry between these two clubs, filled with drama, skill, and moments that will be remembered for years to come. As the dust settles in Seville, Barcelona celebrates another victory, while Real Madrid must reflect on their season and prepare for the challenges ahead.
