Daijiworld Media Network – Seville
Seville , Apr 27: FC Barcelona emerged victorious in a thrilling Copa del Rey final on Saturday, defeating Real Madrid 3-2 after extra time, with Jules Kounde scoring a dramatic 116th-minute winner.
The match seemed destined for penalties when Kounde latched onto a ball from Luka Modric in the Madrid half and drilled it past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to seal Barcelona’s 32nd Copa del Rey title.
The buildup to the final was marred by controversy, as Real Madrid TV aired a video attacking referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea, who, visibly emotional, explained how the pressure had affected his family. Despite Real Madrid's protests and rumors of a potential boycott, the match went ahead.
Madrid's troubles began early with Ferland Mendy forced off with a groin injury, replaced by Fran Garcia. Barcelona took control, with Pedri scoring in the 28th minute, but Madrid had their chances, including a disallowed goal from Jude Bellingham and a close call from Dani Olmo's corner.
Real Madrid responded in the second half with fresh legs, as Kylian Mbappe equalized with a free-kick and Aurelien Tchouameni put them ahead with a powerful header. However, Barcelona fought back, with Ferran Torres capitalizing on a Courtois mistake to make it 2-2.
Tensions rose as Barcelona had two penalty appeals rejected, but a VAR review in injury time sent the game into extra time. In the 116th minute, Kounde’s clinical finish handed Barcelona a memorable win.
The match was marred by tempers flaring, with Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger needing to be restrained after protesting a late decision.