FC Barcelona wins the Copa del Rey in an epic final against Real Madrid
Blaugrana prevail 3–2 after extra time at La Cartuja Stadium to secure their 32nd Copa del Rey title
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Seville’s La Cartuja Stadium, FC Barcelona lifted the Copa del Rey trophy by defeating Real Madrid CF 3–2 in a thrilling final decided in extra time. Pedri opened the scoring before halftime, while Mbappé and Tchouaméni overturned the deficit in the second half. Ferran Torres forced extra time with a late equalizer, and Jules Koundé struck the decisive blow in the 113th minute, igniting celebrations among the 72,000 spectators.
Initial Dominance and Pedri’s Strike
From the opening whistle, Barcelona asserted control with high pressing and swift ball circulation. After a cautious opening phase, the blaugrana began probing Real Madrid’s defense more frequently. In the 29th minute, Pedri electrified the crowd by curling a precise finish from the edge of the box into the bottom corner, giving Barcelona a 1–0 lead that they took into the break.
Madrid’s Response: Mbappé and Tchouaméni Turn the Tide
Real Madrid emerged after halftime with renewed vigor. Manager Carlo Ancelotti’s substitutions injected fresh energy, and in the 70th minute, Kilian Mbappé—introduced at the interval—rocketed a free kick past the wall and into the top corner to level the score at 1–1. Seven minutes later, Aurélien Tchouaméni powered home a header from a corner, completing the comeback to make it 2–1. The white half of the stadium erupted as Madrid seized control of the contest.
Ferran Torres Forces Extra Time
With time running out, Barcelona launched a swift counterattack in the 84th minute. Ferran Torres raced past Thibaut Courtois and calmly slotted home to restore parity at 2–2, sending the match into extra time and sparking another wave of noise from the stands. Despite late efforts from both sides, neither could break the deadlock in regulation.
Koundé’s Decisive Moment in Extra Time
Fatigue was evident in both teams during the extra period, and chances were scarce. In the 113th minute, Jules Koundé seized on a loose ball inside the box and drilled it low into the net, securing a 3–2 victory for Barcelona. The final whistle unleashed wild celebrations as players and fans alike savored a historic triumph.
Key Facts
Attendance: 72,000
Scorers:
Pedri (29′)
Mbappé (70′)
Tchouaméni (77′)
Ferran Torres (84′)
Jules Koundé (113′)
Historic Final: Eighth Copa del Rey final contested between Barcelona and Real Madrid
La Cartuja witnessed a final worthy of its storied history, as two of Spain’s giants produced a spectacular display of football. Barcelona’s resilience and timely interventions earned them a record-extending 32nd Copa del Rey, while Real Madrid’s spirited comeback underscored their enduring competitiveness. Both clubs now turn their attention to the remainder of the season, fueled by the dramas of this unforgettable cup final.