In a breathtaking Copa del Rey final at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville, Barcelona overcame fierce rivals Real Madrid 3-2 after extra time to claim their record-extending 32nd Spanish Cup title. Jules Kounde was the hero, striking in the 116th minute to seal the victory in dramatic fashion.
Barcelona started the match with dominance, taking an early lead in the 28th minute when Pedri unleashed a stunning curling shot from outside the box. Real Madrid, struggling to find rhythm in the first half, managed to stay in the game despite Barcelona’s control.
The second half saw a rejuvenated Madrid side. Kylian Mbappe, initially left on the bench due to injury concerns, came on to breathe life into Madrid’s attack. He made an immediate impact, leveling the score with a precise free-kick goal in the 70th minute. Shortly after, Aurelien Tchouameni rose highest to head Madrid into a 2-1 lead from a corner.
However, Barcelona refused to surrender. On a swift counterattack, Ferran Torres found the back of the net in the 84th minute, leveling the match once again and sending the game into extra time. As both Barcelona and Madrid pushed for a winner, it was Kounde’s long-range effort that ultimately decided the contest.
Tensions flared late in the game as Madrid players Antonio Ruediger and Lucas Vazquez were sent off for dissent while on the bench. Jude Bellingham was also red-carded after the final whistle for unsportsmanlike behavior, adding to Madrid’s woes.
Barcelona’s triumph marks a significant milestone for their German coach Hansi Flick, who secured his first major trophy with the club. The Catalan giants are still chasing further glory in LaLiga and the UEFA Champions League, while Madrid are now left clinging to hope in the domestic league to avoid a trophy-less season.
“This was the toughest match of my career, but it feels even better winning against Madrid,” said Ferran Torres after being named Player of the Match. “Barcelona never gives up, and today we proved it once again.”
The heated clash between Barcelona and Madrid was fueled by controversy even before kickoff, with Madrid boycotting pre-match events in protest over refereeing issues. Despite the chaos, Barcelona kept their focus and gave their fans an unforgettable night.