Credited from: CHANNELNEWSASIA
Real Madrid and Barcelona are set to clash in a highly anticipated Copa del Rey final after securing thrilling semifinal victories. Madrid edged past Real Sociedad in a dramatic 4-4 draw that resulted in a 5-4 aggregate win, while Barcelona defeated Atletico Madrid 1-0 at the Metropolitano Stadium
Barcelona's victory came courtesy of Ferran Torres, who scored the only goal of the match in the 27th minute, sealing a 5-4 aggregate win for the Catalan side. Lamine Yamal provided the assist, sending Torres in on goal, where he finished with precision to the bottom left corner, granting Barcelona their first Copa del Rey final appearance in four seasons, as reported by CNA.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid advanced after a pulsating semifinal against Real Sociedad. Though they went into the leg holding a slender 1-0 lead from the first match, they were taken to extra time after a thrilling see-saw match ended at 4-4. The decisive moment came when Antonio Rudiger headed home in the 115th minute, completing their comeback and ensuring a 5-4 aggregate win, as detailed by Al Jazeera.
This upcoming final will be the first Copa del Rey encounter between the two giants since the 2013-14 season, when Real Madrid emerged victorious. It marks a significant chapter in the historic rivalry, often referred to as El Clasico, with Real Madrid having a slight edge in previous final matchups, leading with 11 victories out of 18 meetings.
This season has already seen Barcelona dominate their previous encounters, thrashing Madrid 4-0 in La Liga last October and claiming a 5-2 victory in the Spanish Super Cup earlier this year. Both clubs remain competitive for multiple titles this season, being positioned well in their respective leagues and tournaments as the Reuters notes.
The final is scheduled for April 26 at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville, promising to be a thrilling encounter for football fans around the world.