Barcelona vs Real Madrid: Copa del Rey 2025 Final Thriller

In a thrilling and dramatic Copa del Rey final held at Seville’s La Cartuja Stadium on April 26, 2025, Barcelona edged out their fierce rivals Real Madrid with a 3-2 victory after extra time. This win marked Barcelona’s record-extending 32nd Copa del Rey title and set the stage for their ambitious pursuit of a treble this season.

A Match Full of Drama and Excitement

The game started with Barcelona taking early control. Midfielder Pedri opened the scoring in the 28th minute with a stunning long-range curling shot into the top corner, showcasing his skill and giving Barcelona the lead in the first half, which they largely dominated.

However, Real Madrid fought back fiercely in the second half. Kylian Mbappé, who had been on the bench due to an ankle injury, came on at halftime and scored his first direct free-kick goal of his senior career in the 70th minute to equalize. Just seven minutes later, Aurélien Tchouaméni headed Madrid into the lead, turning the game around within minutes.

Despite being behind, Barcelona did not give up. Ferran Torres scored an important equalizer in the 84th minute during a swift counterattack, pushing the match into extra time and keeping the hopes of the Catalan side alive.

The Decisive Moment: Jules Koundé’s Extra-Time Winner

The winner came in the 116th minute when Barcelona defender Jules Koundé seized a pass from Brahim Díaz and fired a precise shot into the low corner of the net past Real Madrid’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. This goal sealed the victory for Barcelona in a nail-biting finish and sent their fans into jubilation.

Beyond the Scoreline: A Battle of Rivalry and Resilience

This final was more than just a match; it was a fierce El Clásico battle filled with passion, skill, and resilience from both teams. Barcelona’s ability to control the game in the first half and their never-give-up attitude in the second half showed their strong character. Real Madrid’s comeback in the second half demonstrated their fighting spirit and determination to win despite setbacks.

The match also had tense moments off the pitch. Real Madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger and Lucas Vázquez received red cards for dissent from the bench in the dying moments, highlighting the pressure and emotions involved in such a high-stakes game.

What This Victory Means for Barcelona

Winning the Copa del Rey final gives Barcelona a significant boost as they aim for a treble this season, which includes the La Liga title and the Champions League. The team currently leads La Liga by four points over Real Madrid, adding to their confidence heading into the Champions League semifinals against Inter Milan.

Ferran Torres, who played a key role in the comeback, reflected on the victory by saying the team is happy but focused, knowing tougher challenges lie ahead in the Champions League.

A Classic Encounter

This Copa del Rey final was a classic encounter between two of the world’s greatest football clubs. Both teams showed moments of brilliance and resilience, making it a thrilling spectacle for fans worldwide. While Barcelona emerged victorious, Real Madrid’s fightback and the intensity of the match remind us why El Clásico is one of football’s most captivating rivalries.

In conclusion, the 2025 Copa del Rey final will be remembered for its dramatic twists and last-minute heroics. Barcelona’s last-gasp winner by Jules Koundé not only secured a historic trophy but also set the tone for an exciting finish to the football season.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies