AFCON 2025
The match was filled with drama. Both teams scored two goals each in regular time, setting up a tense period of extra time. Just when a penalty shootout seemed inevitable, Jules Kounde sealed the win with a stunning 25-yard shot in the 116th minute.
COPA FINAL 🏆
BARÇA 3-2 REAL MADRID pic.twitter.com/rsQyQkU10S— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 26, 2025
Here are 3 things learned from the thrilling final
1. Barcelona look poised for the treble
Barcelona are having an explosive season under Hansi Flick, and winning the Copa Del Rey is just one of the three trophies on offer for the Blaugrana this season.
Flick’s men are four points clear at the top of LaLiga and have a two-legged UEFA Champions League semifinal to look forward to. Their performance and tenacity against Real Madrid in this final showed they are willing to go all the way.
2. Pedri outshines Real Madrid’s Midfield
The distance between Real Madrid’s midfielders and Pedri was on full display in this game. The Barcelona midfielder not only dictates the tempo of the game but also hardly ever puts a foot wrong when the ball is at his feet.
His precision and clinical passing were the main reasons why Barcelona finished the first half with almost double the number of passes of their opponents, not to mention his spectacular goal that gave Barcelona the early lead.
3. Mbappe held his own with no help
Rodrygo struggled to make an impact on the right wing during the opening 45 minutes, ending the half with just eight passes. However, the introduction of Mbappé at halftime brought an immediate boost to Real Madrid. The French superstar used his speed to exploit Barcelona’s high defensive line, putting Pau Cubarsí under pressure.
It was only a matter of time before Mbappé made his mark on the game. Although his stunning free kick may steal the headlines, the spark he brought to Real Madrid’s attack was crucial in pushing the game to extra time. Mbappé’s impact was evident, and his presence gave Carlo Ancelotti’s side a much-needed injection of energy.
