Sevilla is buzzing with excitement this Saturday as the Copa del Rey final unfolds, featuring a classic showdown between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at the Estadio de La Cartuja. With kickoff scheduled for 22:00 hours, over 100,000 fans have flocked to the city, many without tickets, creating a vibrant yet tense atmosphere.
In preparation for the massive influx, authorities deployed more than 2,000 security personnel, including both National and Local Police, to ensure public order amidst the fervor. Despite the overwhelming number of fans gathering at various locations in Sevilla, officials reported no serious incidents throughout the day. The camaraderie among supporters from both clubs, while occasionally strained, largely remained peaceful.
However, the day was not without its challenges. One notable incident occurred in the city center near the city hall, where police intervened to disperse a large group of Barcelona fans who were reportedly launching rockets and flares while chanting provocative slogans directed at their rivals. According to Efe, the police action was taken to quell the rising tension, but thankfully, it did not escalate into major disturbances. Following the intervention, the situation stabilized, allowing the festivities to continue without further major disruptions.
Earlier in the day, a separate altercation resulted in one person sustaining minor injuries, but no arrests were made in connection with that incident. Nonetheless, one individual was detained in relation to the events surrounding the final, though details regarding this arrest remain sparse.
As the excitement builds, the Estadio de La Cartuja, with a capacity of 70,000 spectators, is set to host more than 26,000 fans from each of the competing clubs. The atmosphere is electric, with the authorities urging fans to celebrate responsibly and avoid any actions that could mar the significance of this prestigious event.
The Copa del Rey final is not just another match; it is a clash of titans in what is considered the greatest rivalry in club football. This marks the eighth time that a Clásico has determined the tournament's champion, with Real Madrid holding a slight edge in previous encounters, winning four out of seven finals against Barcelona.
As fans prepare for the match, the teams are finalizing their strategies. Real Madrid, under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, is looking to secure a title that could provide a much-needed boost after a tumultuous season that saw them exit European competitions early. Meanwhile, Barcelona, led by Hansi Flick, aims to capitalize on their momentum and add another trophy to their already impressive collection.
The match will be broadcast live in Spain on La 1 and RTVE Play, with Movistar Plus+ subscribers also able to tune in via the platform. For international viewers, ESPN Deportes/ESPN+ will cover the game in the United States, while Premier Sports 1 will do so in the United Kingdom, and Sky Sports will provide coverage for Mexico and Central America.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, both teams are on the pitch for their warm-ups, with fans cheering them on from the stands. The weather is favorable for football, with clear skies, a temperature of 28 degrees Celsius, and 43% humidity, setting the stage for an unforgettable encounter.
In the lead-up to the match, tensions have been palpable. Ancelotti's future with Real Madrid has been a hot topic, with speculation swirling that this could be his last match in charge. The Italian manager began his tenure at the club with a victory over Barcelona in a Copa del Rey final, and a repeat performance today could provide a fitting conclusion to his current chapter.
On the other side, Barcelona's lineup features key players who will be looking to shine on this grand stage. With Wojciech Szczęsny in goal and Ferrán Torres leading the attack, the Catalans are determined to reclaim their dominance in the tournament, having won the Copa del Rey a record 31 times.
As fans await the kickoff, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The national anthem of Spain is played, and for the first time in recent memory, there are no boos from the Catalan supporters during the Marcha Real, a sign of the tense but respectful rivalry that characterizes this match.
In a symbolic gesture, the Athletic Club of Bilbao, the previous Copa champions, has presented the trophy to be contested today, adding to the pageantry of the event. The stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams vie not only for the trophy but also for pride and bragging rights in the footballing world.
As the final whistle approaches, fans from both sides are united in their passion for the game, each hoping their team will emerge victorious. With the stakes high and the history of this rivalry on the line, the 2025 Copa del Rey final is shaping up to be a memorable chapter in the annals of Spanish football.
