Barcelona claimed their record 32nd Copa del Rey title in dramatic fashion on Saturday, overcoming rivals Real Madrid 3-2 in a pulsating final at Seville’s La Cartuja Stadium. Jules Kounde struck the decisive goal in the 116th minute of extra time with a thunderous 25-yard strike, capping a match marked by shifting momentum and late heroics.
The game began with Pedri opening the scoring for Barcelona via a first-half curler, but Real Madrid clawed back through substitutes Kylian Mbappé and Aurelien Tchouameni. Ferran Torres equalized late for Barça to force extra time before Kounde’s winner. Real Madrid ended the match with three red cards, including one for star midfielder Jude Bellingham post-whistle.
Torres, named Man of the Match, called it the “most physically demanding game” of his career while emphasizing the team’s focus on upcoming UEFA Champions League challenges. The victory gives coach Hansi Flick his first trophy with Barcelona, who remain in contention for both La Liga and European honors. Real Madrid, meanwhile, face pressure to salvage their season in the domestic league race.
