Brazilian Flag Science & Culture

Barcelona Clinches 32nd Copa del Rey Title After Extra-Time Thriller Against Real Madrid

Barcelona Clinches 32nd Copa del Rey Title After Extra-Time Thriller Against Real Madrid

Barcelona Seals Dramatic Win in Copa del Rey Final

Few matches ignite as much passion as a Barcelona versus Real Madrid final. This year’s Copa del Rey showdown lived up to its billing, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats until the very last moments. Tied 2-2 deep into extra time, it was Jules Koundé who broke the deadlock for Barcelona with a well-timed strike in the 116th minute, clinching the title and sparking wild celebrations among players and fans alike.

The atmosphere before kickoff was tense, with supporters from both sides filling the stands and millions more tuning in from all around the world via platforms like Premier Sports One for UK viewers, and alternatives including ESPN+ or beIN Sports depending on the country. This final wasn’t just about two teams; it was about national pride, legacy, and a rivalry that stretches back more than a century.

Key Moments and How the Match Unfolded

The action started bright and early, with Barcelona’s Pedri putting his side in front after just a few exchanges. His goal set the tone for an attacking match, but Real Madrid didn’t take long to respond. Their new star, Kylian Mbappé, delivered a stunning equalizer from a direct free-kick—showing why the club fought so hard to bring him to Spain. The match swayed back and forth, with Aurelien Tchouameni rising above the Barcelona defense to head home a corner, temporarily putting Madrid ahead and shifting the momentum.

Barcelona’s response was fast and fierce. Ferran Torres capitalized on defensive chaos in the Madrid box, poking home from close range to draw level again. As the minutes ticked down, the sense that this game would need more than just 90 minutes grew stronger. Extra time beckoned and with it, even more drama.

Both teams had chances, with keepers on each side pulling off spectacular saves. But it was Koundé’s unyielding determination that proved decisive. He popped up as Real Madrid’s defenders tired, firing past the keeper and sending Barcelona’s bench into utter jubilation. That goal, coming so late in the day, sealed the Catalans’ 32nd Copa del Rey trophy—a record in Spanish football that just keeps growing.

  • Barcelona now stands alone at the top of the Copa del Rey roll of honor with 32 wins.
  • Barcelona’s manager trusted a mix of youth and experience, crucial against Madrid’s high-powered attack.
  • Mbappé’s free-kick highlighted his instant impact in Spanish football, while Pedri and Torres were key for the Catalans.

If you’re a fan outside Spain, catching the match live can be tricky. UK viewers got their fix via Premier Sports One, while fans across the Americas often depended on ESPN+. Meanwhile, Middle East and North African fans typically turned to beIN Sports for live access. Streaming platforms’ growing presence is changing the way football reaches fans, and major matches like these prove just how much global hunger there is for the best in Spanish football.

The tension, skill, and sheer unpredictability during this Copa del Rey final reminded everyone why Barcelona and Real Madrid sit atop world football’s pecking order. Miss this game and you missed a classic—one that Barcelona fans, at least, won’t forget for a long while.