In a thrilling Copa del Rey final at Seville’s La Cartuja Stadium on Saturday night, FC Barcelona emerged victorious in a 3-2 win over fierce rivals Real Madrid, securing their record-extending 32nd Spanish Cup title. The dramatic finale came in extra time when French defender Jules Koundé scored a stunning 25-yard strike in the 116th minute, sending Barcelona’s fans into euphoria.

The match, which was charged with emotion and tension, saw Barcelona take the lead in the 28th minute. Pedri’s brilliant curling shot from outside the box found the top corner, putting the Catalans 1-0 ahead. Barcelona dominated the first half, controlling possession and creating several opportunities.

However, Real Madrid turned the tide in the second half. Despite Kylian Mbappé’s absence from the starting lineup due to a recent ankle injury, the French forward came off the bench in the 70th minute to score the equalizer with a powerful free-kick. Real Madrid continued their push and took the lead just seven minutes later, as Aurelien Tchouaméni rose highest to head in a corner, putting Madrid 2-1 up.

But Barcelona wasn’t finished. In the 84th minute, Ferran Torres capitalized on a swift counterattack to score the equalizer, sending the match into extra time. Just when it seemed a penalty shootout was inevitable, Koundé struck in the 116th minute, securing Barcelona’s victory and completing a stunning turnaround.

The match ended on a sour note for Real Madrid, as Antonio Rüdiger and Lucas Vázquez, both having been substituted earlier, were shown red cards for dissent from the sidelines. Jude Bellingham also received a red card after the final whistle for unsportsmanlike conduct, adding to Madrid’s frustration.

Barcelona’s victory was especially significant for their manager, Hansi Flick, who secured his first major title with the club. This triumph adds to their impressive season, with La Liga and the Champions League still within reach.

“It was a good time to give the fans something to cheer about. Let’s enjoy it, but don’t overdo it because the Champions League semi-finals are coming up in a few days,” said Ferran Torres, who was named Player of the Match.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, will focus on La Liga as their sole remaining major competition this season, after falling short in the Copa del Rey. The match was further tinged with off-field controversy, as Real Madrid decided to boycott pre-match activities in protest against the Spanish FA’s refereeing. Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea had to make several difficult decisions, which added to the already intense atmosphere.

Barcelona’s triumph not only secured them the coveted Copa del Rey but also served as a massive confidence booster as they look to push for more silverware this season. Real Madrid, now with just La Liga to play for, will regroup and focus on salvaging their campaign.