Barcelona defender Jules Kounde struck deep into extra-time to seal a dramatic 3-2 victory over archrivals Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final.
The Catalans, chasing a historic quadruple this season, clinched the first major trophy of Hansi Flick’s reign and a record-extending 32nd Spanish Cup triumph in gripping fashion.
Pedri gave Barcelona the lead with a stunning strike, but two quick second-half goals from Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni turned the tide in Real Madrid’s favour. However, Ferran Torres equalised in the 84th minute to force extra-time, where Kounde drilled home the winner for the La Liga leaders.
Tempers flared late on, with Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger sent off after allegedly throwing an object toward the referee, while Lucas Vázquez was also dismissed for dissent.
“It was a good time to bring joy to our fans; we have to enjoy it, but without forgetting the Champions League semis are coming,” said Torres to La 1, with Barcelona set to host Inter Milan on Wednesday.
A jubilant Flick maintained his perfect record of winning all seven finals he has coached and added, “They can make a party for today; it’s OK.”
Madrid, hampered by injuries, started without top scorer Mbappe due to an ankle issue and lost Ferland Mendy early to a thigh injury. Fran Garcia replaced him, tasked with containing Barcelona’s electric teenage winger Lamine Yamal, who dazzled with his blond-dyed hair and dynamic runs.
Barcelona, who had already defeated Real Madrid twice this season, in La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, dominated possession early on. Their opening goal came after Pau Cubarsi’s interception, a sweeping move ending with Yamal cutting inside to assist Pedri, who quickly rifled the ball into the top corner.
Madrid responded by bringing on Mbappe at halftime, and although Jude Bellingham had a goal disallowed for offside and Vinicius Junior was denied a penalty due to an earlier infringement, the momentum began to shift.
Still, Barcelona remained dangerous, coming close to extending their lead when Dani Olmo’s corner struck the post.
Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea kept a firm hand on a feisty affair, despite Madrid’s frustration over recent refereeing controversies.
