Barcelona, Atletico Madrid Dominate to Reach Copa del Rey Quarterfinals

Posted : 16 January 2025

Barcelona delivered an electrifying performance to secure a 5-1 victory over Real Betis on Wednesday, advancing to the Copa del Rey quarterfinals. Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old prodigy, starred by scoring and assisting in two of the goals as Barcelona dominated throughout the match at the Olympic Stadium.

Despite resting key players, including striker Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona took control early, with Gavi opening the scoring in the second minute. Yamal's deft assist to Jules Kounde helped double the lead, and further goals from Raphinha, Ferran Torres, and a late strike from Yamal himself sealed the comprehensive win.

Barcelona's rejuvenation after winning the Spanish Super Cup gave them a significant boost, following a shaky period earlier in 2024. The Catalans' tactical brilliance was on full display, with Dani Olmo, filling in for Lewandowski as a false nine, playing a crucial role in the build-up to the first goal.

Although Yamal's brilliant finish was initially disallowed for offside in the second half, his efforts continued to torment Betis' defense. Raphinha capitalized on Yamal's setup to score, and Torres later added a goal of his own.

In a commanding second half, Barcelona's clinical finishing continued, with Yamal finally getting on the scoresheet after a skillful run and finish. Betis had a late penalty through Vitor Roque, but it was only a consolation for the visitors.

Barcelona's young talents, including Pau Cubarsi and Yamal, impressed with their flair and maturity, earning praise from teammates like Gavi, who hailed Yamal as the best player in the world after Lionel Messi. Coach Hansi Flick also recognized Yamal's growing brilliance, noting that the young winger is on the right path to stardom.

Atletico Madrid also advanced to the quarterfinals with a dominant 4-0 win at Elche. The team, which has now won 15 consecutive games across all competitions, played without regulars such as Antoine Griezmann.

Alexander Sorloth's brace and further goals from Rodrigo Riquelme and Julian Alvarez ensured the victory. Atletico capitalized on a red card to Elche’s Nico Fernandez, further cementing their place in the next round. With their win, Atletico remains one of the top contenders for silverware this season.

Barcelona, Atletico Madrid Dominate to Reach Copa del Rey Quarterfinals

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