Barca edge Real Madrid in extra-time to win wild Copa del Rey final

In a thrilling Copa del Rey final at Seville's Estadio de La Cartuja, FC Barcelona clinched their 32nd title with a 3-2 extra-time victory over Real Madrid, thanks to a decisive goal by Jules Koundé in the 116th minute. This win marks the first major trophy under coach Hansi Flick and keeps Barcelona's aspirations for a quadruple alive this season.

Barcelona took the lead in the 28th minute when Pedri finished a move he initiated, combining with Lamine Yamal before striking a powerful shot into the top corner. Real Madrid responded in the second half; Kylian Mbappé, coming off the bench, equalized with a free-kick in the 70th minute, marking his first career goal from a direct free-kick. Five minutes later, Aurélien Tchouaméni headed in a corner from Arda Güler to give Madrid a 2-1 lead.

Barcelona leveled the score in the 84th minute when Ferran Torres capitalized on a pass from Yamal, sending the match into extra time. In the 116th minute, Koundé intercepted a loose pass from Luka Modrić and fired a shot from outside the box past Thibaut Courtois, securing the victory for Barcelona. (Kylian Mbappe finally achieves career first - but Real Madrid fall to heartbreaking Copa del Rey final defeat)

The match was not without controversy. Real Madrid had a potential penalty overturned by VAR due to an offside in the build-up. Post-match tensions escalated when Antonio Rüdiger, who had been substituted, was sent off for allegedly throwing an object toward the referee. Lucas Vázquez was also dismissed for protesting. (Real Madrid advances to Copa del Rey final with 4-0 win over Barcelona - Sportstar, Kylian Mbappe finally achieves career first - but Real Madrid fall to heartbreaking Copa del Rey final defeat)

This victory adds to Barcelona's impressive season, having already secured the Spanish Super Cup and leading La Liga. They now turn their focus to the upcoming Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan.