Seville, Spain – In a pulsating, drama-packed final at La Cartuja Stadium, Barcelona defeated arch-rivals Real Madrid 3-2 after extra time to lift the 2025 Copa del Rey title. A decisive 112th-minute strike from Jules Koundé sealed the victory, handing manager Hansi Flick his first major silverware with the Catalan club and extending Barcelona’s record to an astonishing 32 Copa del Rey triumphs.
The encounter had it all—early injuries, stunning goals, controversial refereeing decisions, late drama, and two red cards for Real Madrid in the dying moments. With this triumph, Barcelona remain on course for a potential historic quadruple, having already secured the Spanish Super Cup, while leading La Liga and progressing to the Champions League semifinals.
Match Report: A Clásico for the Ages
First Half: Barcelona Dominate as Pedri Breaks the Deadlock
Real Madrid suffered a significant blow early in the match when Ferland Mendy was forced off with a thigh injury in the 12th minute, prompting Carlo Ancelotti to introduce Fran García. Mendy’s absence exposed Madrid’s left flank, with Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s 17-year-old prodigy, repeatedly exploiting the space.
Barcelona controlled possession and were rewarded in the 28th minute when Pedri struck. Following an interception by Pau Cubarsí, Yamal cut inside and laid off a precise pass for Pedri, who unleashed a ferocious shot into the top corner past Thibaut Courtois.
Madrid struggled to regain composure before halftime. Jude Bellingham saw a goal ruled out for offside, and Vinícius Jr. was denied a penalty following a challenge by Iñigo Martínez, which VAR judged had an offside infringement in the buildup.
Second Half: Mbappé Sparks a Real Madrid Revival
In a bold halftime decision, Ancelotti introduced Kylian Mbappé, who had been nursing an ankle knock, in place of Rodrygo. The French superstar made an immediate impact.
In the 70th minute, Mbappé earned a free-kick on the edge of the box and spectacularly curled his shot off the post and into the net, leveling the score. Just seven minutes later, Aurélien Tchouaméni rose highest to head home an Arda Güler corner, completing Madrid’s comeback.
However, Barcelona refused to capitulate. In the 84th minute, Yamal produced a delightful chipped pass to Ferran Torres, who held off Antonio Rüdiger and coolly finished past Courtois to force extra time.
Extra Time: Koundé’s Decisive Strike Amid Madrid’s Collapse
The additional period saw Barcelona dominate proceedings as Real Madrid’s fatigue became evident. The winning moment arrived in the 112th minute when Jules Koundé intercepted a misplaced pass from Luka Modrić, advanced into space, and unleashed a low, unstoppable drive beyond Courtois.
Frustrations boiled over for Madrid in the final minutes. Antonio Rüdiger was sent off for throwing an object towards the referee, and Lucas Vázquez followed shortly after for dissent, compounding Madrid’s misery.
Key Talking Points
Hansi Flick’s Unblemished Final Record
Hansi Flick continues his remarkable streak in finals, having now won all seven he has managed, including the 2020 UEFA Champions League with Bayern Munich.
Lamine Yamal’s Breakout Performance
The 17-year-old winger was a constant menace, assisting Pedri’s opener and playing a vital role in Torres’ equalizer. His performance reinforced his status as one of football’s brightest young talents.
Kylian Mbappé’s Instant Impact
Despite starting on the bench, Mbappé’s energy and goal shifted momentum. His fitness will be critical for Real Madrid’s upcoming Champions League semifinal against Manchester City.
Refereeing Controversies
The officiating came under scrutiny with Real Madrid expressing anger over a disallowed penalty for Vinícius Jr. and a reversed Barcelona penalty after a VAR review in stoppage time.
Upcoming Fixtures
- Barcelona face Inter Milan in the Champions League semifinals next week.
- Real Madrid prepare for their UCL clash against Manchester City.
- Both teams will meet again in La Liga on May 10, in a match that could determine the title race.
Post-Match Reactions
Hansi Flick (Barcelona Manager)
“This is a special victory for the team and our supporters. We showed resilience and quality. Now, our attention turns to the Champions League.”
Ferran Torres (Barcelona Forward)
“The fans deserve this moment. However, the season is far from over; bigger challenges lie ahead.”
Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid Manager)
“Small details cost us today. We must learn and focus on the matches ahead.”
Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid Forward)
“I gave everything, but it was not enough. We must regroup and aim for success in Europe.”
Final Thoughts
This Copa del Rey final will be etched into El Clásico history as one of the most exhilarating encounters. Barcelona’s resilience and Real Madrid’s spirit provided a footballing spectacle, but ultimately, it was Barça’s night.
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With the Champions League semifinals and La Liga title still to be decided, both teams have little time to recover. Fans worldwide can expect even more drama in the coming weeks.
TJ News Nigeria, Edited by Don Omajemite
How would you rate Barcelona’s performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 👇.
