Barcelona secured their record-extending 32nd Copa del Rey title with a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over arch-rivals Real Madrid in Seville. Jules Kounde’s late strike proved decisive in a match that showcased the fierce competition between Spain’s football giants.
The Catalans took an early lead through Pedri’s precise finish, but Madrid responded in the second half with goals from Kylian Mbappé and Aurelien Tchouameni to pull ahead. Barcelona’s Ferran Torres forced extra time with an 84th-minute equalizer before Kounde capitalized on a rare Luka Modric error to seal the victory.
This triumph marks the first major trophy of Hansi Flick’s tenure as Barcelona coach, continuing his remarkable record of winning all seven finals he has managed throughout his career. “It was a good time to bring joy to our fans,” Torres told La 1 after the match. “We have to enjoy it but without forgetting the Champions League semis are coming.”
The match was not without controversy, as Madrid defenders Antonio Rudiger and Lucas Vazquez were both sent off in the closing moments for protests against the referee. This followed pre-match tension regarding officiating, with Madrid having expressed concerns about referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea.
Barcelona’s victory maintains their dominance in this season’s Clásico encounters, having now won all three meetings against Madrid. The triumph strengthens their position as they pursue multiple trophies, with a Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan approaching on Wednesday.
For Real Madrid, the defeat represents a setback in their own trophy ambitions, though they remain in contention for the La Liga title. The teams will meet again in May for a league fixture that could potentially decide the championship, ensuring the rivalry’s intensity continues unabated.
The match highlighted the exceptional talent on both sides, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal particularly impressive for Barcelona, while Jude Bellingham showed moments of brilliance for Madrid despite the defeat.
