Jules Kounde delivered a moment of magic in extra time to hand Barcelona a thrilling 3-2 victory over fierce rivals Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final.
In a dramatic Clasico, Kounde lashed home a superb low strike from 22 yards, securing Barca’s first major trophy under new boss Hansi Flick.
The Catalans dominated the first half, deservedly leading through Pedri’s stunning first-time finish after a clever cut-back from Lamine Yamal.
Real Madrid, sluggish early on, sprang to life after Kylian Mbappe’s introduction. The French superstar equalized with a curling free-kick off the post before Aurelien Tchouameni’s towering header from Arda Guler’s corner put Los Blancos ahead.
Barcelona, however, refused to wilt. Ferran Torres kept his cool to round Thibaut Courtois and slot home the equalizer following a brilliant long ball from Yamal. Late drama saw Barca awarded a penalty in injury time, only for VAR to overturn the decision after a lengthy review.
Extra time looked destined for penalties until Kounde’s sensational strike broke Madrid hearts.
The final ended amid chaotic scenes. Real’s Antonio Rudiger and Lucas Vazquez were both sent off from the bench, while Jude Bellingham was shown a red card after the final whistle for remonstrating with officials.
The victory marks Barcelona’s first Copa del Rey title since 2021 and caps a thrilling night that will be remembered as one of the most dramatic Clasicos in recent history.
