Barcelona lifted the 2024/25 Copa del Rey trophy after a pulsating 3-2 victory over arch-rivals Real Madrid in Seville, surviving a second-half scare to secure silverware under Hansi Flick.
The Catalan giants started brightly and deservedly went ahead in the 28th minute, with Pedri coolly finishing after dazzling wing play from rising star Lamine Yamal.
Despite dominating possession and creating a flurry of chances, Barcelona’s profligacy kept Madrid in the contest. Sensing the urgency, Carlo Ancelotti introduced Kylian Mbappe at halftime, and the French superstar made an immediate impact — rifling home a stunning direct free-kick in the 70th minute to level the score.
Madrid’s momentum grew, and Aurelien Tchouameni completed a dramatic turnaround seven minutes later, heading in from an Arda Guler corner.
Just when Barcelona seemed rattled, they found their response through Ferran Torres, who converted another brilliant assist from Yamal to make it 2-2.
Drama intensified as a potential late penalty for Barcelona was overturned by VAR, with Raphinha booked for simulation, sending the game into extra time.
With penalties looming, Jules Kounde seized a crucial moment in the 116th minute, pouncing on a loose ball to slot past Thibaut Courtois and clinch victory for Barça.
Antonio Rudiger, earlier substituted, was shown a red card for dissent as tempers flared in the Madrid camp.
Barcelona’s triumph not only marked their third Clasico win of the season but also piled pressure on Madrid, who now face the prospect of a trophyless campaign unless they can overturn a four-point deficit in La Liga.
