In a pulsating Copa del Rey final that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Jules Kounde delivered a decisive strike deep into extra time, propelling Barcelona to a 3-2 victory over fierce rivals Real Madrid in Seville. The dramatic triumph not only handed Barcelona their first major trophy under coach Hansi Flick but also marked their record-extending 32nd Spanish cup win in a match filled with twists, turns, and intense rivalry.
The match began with Barcelona taking an early lead through Pedri, who expertly fired the ball into the top corner after a brilliant build-up starting from a crucial interception by Pau Cubarsi. The goal ignited the Catalan side, who dominated possession and looked to control the game against a Madrid side eager to respond.
Madrid’s response came swiftly in the second half, with Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni scoring in rapid succession to turn the tide and level the score at 2-2. Mbappe, starting on the bench due to an ankle injury, made an immediate impact after coming on, adding to Madrid’s attacking threat.
Ferran Torres then stepped up in the 84th minute, firing a crucial goal that pushed the match into extra time, where Kounde’s thunderous strike settled the contest in favor of Barcelona. The defending champion’s resilience and determination shone through in the final moments, despite chaos off the pitch.
In the dying seconds, Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger was sent off for allegedly throwing an object towards the referee, while Lucas Vazquez was dismissed for protesting. The turbulent end underscored the passion and intensity of this classic rivalry.
Post-match, Barcelona coach Flick celebrated his record of winning all seven finals he’s coached, emphasizing the significance of the victory ahead of the upcoming Champions League semi-finals. Meanwhile, Torres acknowledged the victory’s importance for the club’s morale, as Barcelona prepares to host Inter Milan midweek.
Madrid faced setbacks from the start, missing top scorer Mbappe due to injury and losing Ferland Mendy early on. Carlo Ancelotti’s side fought valiantly, with young star Yamal leading the attack, but ultimately fell short in a match that will be remembered for its drama and quality.
As fans revel in the victory, Barcelona’s quest for a historic quadruple remains alive, with the Copa del Rey triumph fueling their ambitions across all fronts.
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