Kounde’s Extra-Time Thunderbolt Secures Copa Del Rey Glory For Barcelona In Dramatic Clasico.
Jules Kounde struck a sensational extra-time winner as Barcelona overcame Real Madrid to lift the Copa del Rey in an unforgettable Clasico in Seville.
After a pulsating 2-2 draw over 90 minutes, and with penalties looming, Kounde took matters into his own hands, firing a powerful drive from 22 yards into the bottom corner to seal a thrilling 3-2 victory for Hansi Flick’s side.
Barcelona had dominated the opening stages and deservedly took the lead when Pedri hammered home a superb first-time shot from the edge of the box, following Lamine Yamal’s clever cut-back.
Real Madrid found renewed energy after the introduction of Kylian Mbappe, who equalised with a sublime free-kick that clipped the inside of the post on its way in. Moments later, Aurelien Tchouameni nodded Real ahead from Arda Guler’s corner, putting Carlo Ancelotti’s side in command.
However, Barcelona responded with determination. Ferran Torres latched onto a long ball from Yamal, rounded goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, and coolly slotted home to restore parity.
In stoppage time, Barcelona thought they had a golden chance to win when a penalty was awarded following Raul Asencio’s challenge on Raphinha. But after an extended video assistant referee review, the decision was overturned, and Raphinha was booked for simulation.
The contest headed into extra time, where Kounde’s fourth goal of the season proved decisive. His stunning strike ensured Barcelona lifted their first Copa del Rey since 2021.
The match was not without controversy. Pre-match tension centred around referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea, following a video released by Real Madrid’s television channel criticising his previous performances. Although most of his decisions were relatively straightforward, tempers flared late on.
In the closing moments, Antonio Rudiger and Lucas Vazquez, both from the Real Madrid bench, were shown straight red cards after an angry confrontation with the referee. England international Jude Bellingham was also dismissed after the final whistle for approaching the officials aggressively.
Despite the heated ending, it was Barcelona who celebrated a memorable victory, winning the first Clasico final in a major tournament since Real’s triumph in 2014.
