As the clock ticks down to one of the most anticipated matches in Spanish football, the Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Barcelona, tension has reached a boiling point. On April 26, 2025, at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville, both teams are set to clash in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. However, the lead-up to the match has been marred by controversy, protests, and accusations that could overshadow the game itself.
Real Madrid's representatives made headlines when they notably boycotted the pre-match press conference, a move that has raised eyebrows across the footballing world. Coach Carlo Ancelotti and a player were absent from the scheduled conference, and the team also canceled their training session the day before the final. This protest is reportedly in response to the public statements made by the referees appointed for the match, particularly referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea and VAR official Pablo González Fuertes.
The situation escalated after a press conference where De Burgos Bengoetxea emotionally reacted to criticisms directed at him from Real Madrid TV, which aired a segment questioning his impartiality. During the conference, he could not hold back tears as he recounted how his son faced bullying at school due to his father's profession. “When your child hears at school that his father is a thief, and then comes home crying, it’s very hard,” he said, highlighting the pressure referees face in the current climate.
In light of these events, Real Madrid issued a statement condemning the referees' comments as "unacceptable". The club accused the officials of displaying "clear hostility" towards them, claiming that the statements made just 24 hours before the final demonstrated a lack of professionalism and objectivity. They argued that such comments are inappropriate ahead of a match that will attract millions of viewers worldwide.
In their statement, Real Madrid expressed their concerns about the integrity of the officiating, stating, "These values should prevail during an event of this magnitude, which draws the attention of hundreds of millions around the globe." The club went on to demand a change in the officiating crew for the final, specifically calling for the removal of Fuertes, but their request was denied by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
As the match approaches, reports indicate that Real Madrid has even considered withdrawing from the final altogether. However, they later clarified that they never intended to forfeit the match, stating, "In light of the rumors that have emerged in recent hours, Real Madrid CF announces that our team never considered withdrawing from the final." They emphasized the importance of footballing values triumphing over the apparent animosity displayed by the referees.
The backdrop of this controversy is heightened by the historical rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona, known as El Clásico. This match is not just a game; it’s a clash of titans, steeped in decades of competition and passion. With both teams having a storied history, the stakes are incredibly high. Barcelona comes into the match after a strong season, while Real Madrid looks to reclaim glory in the domestic cup.
Adding to the drama, the match will see key players like Wojciech Szczęsny in goal for Barcelona, who has been pivotal for the team throughout the tournament. However, Robert Lewandowski will be sidelined due to injury, leaving a significant gap in Barcelona's attacking lineup. Meanwhile, Real Madrid is expected to field their strongest squad, eager to capitalize on any weaknesses in their rivals.
Federation President Rafael Louzan, present in Seville, expressed confidence that the final would proceed as planned. He appealed for common sense and responsibility, urging both teams to focus on the game rather than the surrounding controversies. "I am calm that the final will take place. We are preparing for a fantastic match on Saturday," he stated.
With kickoff scheduled for 22:00 local time, fans from both sides are gearing up for what could be a historic encounter. The atmosphere in Seville is electric, with supporters eagerly anticipating the showdown. However, the lingering questions about officiating and the protests from Real Madrid could cast a shadow over the match.
As the teams prepare to take the field, the world watches closely. Will the match go ahead without further incident? Can Real Madrid put aside their grievances to compete at the highest level? And how will the referees handle the intense scrutiny? These questions remain unanswered as the final approaches.
In a sport where emotions run high, the importance of fair play and integrity is paramount. As both teams gear up for the Copa del Rey final, all eyes will be on Seville, not just for the football, but for the unfolding drama that could define this match and potentially influence the future of officiating in Spanish football.
