The 2025 Copa del Rey final delivered a football spectacle that will be remembered for years. In a gripping encounter at Seville’s Estadio de La Cartuja, FC Barcelona edged out arch-rivals Real Madrid 3–2 after extra time, clinching their record-extending 32nd Copa del Rey title. This El Clásico final, the first since 2014, showcased the intensity and drama synonymous with Spanish football’s most storied rivalry.
Match Overview
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Date: April 26, 2025
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Venue: Estadio de La Cartuja, Seville
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Attendance: 55,579
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Final Score: Barcelona 3 – 2 Real Madrid (After Extra Time)
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Man of the Match: Ferran Torres (Barcelona)
The match marked the 260th competitive meeting between the two giants and was the inaugural Copa del Rey final held at the newly renovated La Cartuja stadium, set to host events for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
First Half: A Tactical Stalemate
Both teams approached the first half with caution, focusing on maintaining possession and probing for weaknesses. Barcelona’s midfield trio of Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi orchestrated play, while Real Madrid relied on Luka Modrić and Eduardo Camavinga to control the tempo. Despite several half-chances, neither side managed to break the deadlock before the interval.
Second Half: Goals and Drama
The second half burst into life with Barcelona taking the lead in the 52nd minute through a well-placed shot by Ferran Torres. Real Madrid responded swiftly, equalizing in the 60th minute via a header from Vinícius Júnior. The momentum swung back and forth, with both teams creating opportunities. In the 78th minute, Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema converted a penalty, putting Los Blancos ahead. However, Barcelona’s resilience shone through as Ansu Fati leveled the score in the 85th minute, sending the match into extra time.
Extra Time: Decisive Moments
Extra time saw both teams pushing for a winner, with fatigue setting in. In the 112th minute, Ferran Torres struck again, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to score his second goal of the match. Barcelona managed to hold onto their lead, despite Real Madrid’s relentless pressure, securing a memorable victory.
Tactical Analysis
Barcelona’s Approach
Barcelona’s manager, Xavi Hernández, employed a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing possession-based football and quick transitions. The full-backs, Jordi Alba and Sergi Roberto, provided width, allowing wingers Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati to cut inside and create scoring opportunities.
Real Madrid’s Strategy
Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on counter-attacks and exploiting spaces behind Barcelona’s high defensive line. The midfield duo of Modrić and Camavinga aimed to disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm and launch quick attacks through Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo.
Key Performers
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Ferran Torres (Barcelona): His brace, including the match-winning goal, earned him the Man of the Match award.
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Ansu Fati (Barcelona): Provided the crucial equalizer, showcasing composure under pressure.
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Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid): Consistently threatened Barcelona’s defense with his pace and dribbling.
Post-Match Reactions
Xavi Hernández praised his team’s determination, stating, “This victory is a testament to our hard work and unity. The players showed immense character to come back and win.”
Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged the disappointment but remained optimistic, saying, “It’s a tough loss, but we’ll learn from this experience and come back stronger.”
Historical Significance
Barcelona’s triumph adds another chapter to their illustrious history, reinforcing their dominance in Spanish football. The victory also serves as a morale booster ahead of their UEFA Champions League campaign.
Conclusion
The 2025 Copa del Rey final encapsulated the essence of El Clásico—passion, skill, and drama. Barcelona’s resilience and tactical prowess earned them a hard-fought victory over their eternal rivals, Real Madrid. As both teams look ahead to future challenges, this match will be remembered as a classic encounter in Spanish football history.
