Barcelona’s Cup Woes Continue with Extra-Time Defeat to Athletic Bilbao
Barcelona’s pursuit of a domestic trophy this season hit a roadblock on Wednesday as they fell to a 4-2 away defeat against Athletic Bilbao in the quarterfinal of the Copa del Rey. The Blaugrana, who had already been eliminated from the Spanish Super Cup earlier this month, were unable to overcome a resilient Bilbao side, who secured the victory with two goals in extra time.
A Disappointing Start and a Fortunate Equalizer
Barça’s evening got off to the worst possible start as they conceded a goal within the opening minute. Gorka Guruzeta capitalized on a defensive lapse to volley home from close range, giving Bilbao an early advantage. The Blaugrana, however, showed resilience and found an equalizer in the 25th minute through an unlikely source. Robert Lewandowski’s attempted clearance deflected off Yuri Berchiche and into the net, restoring parity for the visitors.
Teenage Star Yamal Makes History
Barcelona took the lead for the first time in the match just before the half-hour mark. Sixteen-year-old Lamine Yamal, making his mark on the big stage, picked up the ball on the right wing, drove into the penalty area, and unleashed a superb left-footed strike into the bottom corner. Yamal’s goal not only gave Barça the advantage but also made him the youngest player this century to score in the Copa del Rey.
Sancet Levels for Bilbao, Extra Time Ensues
Bilbao refused to be disheartened by Barcelona’s second goal and fought back to equalize in the second half. Oihan Sancet rose highest to head home a Nico Williams cross, setting the stage for a tense finale to regulation time. Both teams traded chances in the closing stages, but neither could find a winning goal, forcing the match into extra time.
Iñaki and Nico Williams Seal the Victory
Extra time proved to be the decisive period as Bilbao took control of the proceedings. In the first half of extra time, Iñaki Williams, who had only returned from international duty with Ghana earlier in the day, latched onto a through ball and fired a shot against the post. However, fortune favored the forward as the rebound fell kindly to him, allowing him to tap in from close range. Nico Williams then put the game beyond doubt just before the end of extra time, scoring with the outside of his right boot to seal the win for Bilbao.
Girona’s Title Challenge Dented by Mallorca Upset
In another Copa del Rey quarterfinal, Girona’s surprise title challenge in La Liga suffered a setback as they were defeated 3-2 by Mallorca. The Blanquivermells, who have impressed in their fourth season in the top flight, found themselves trailing 3-0 at halftime against a Mallorca side sitting 14 places below them in the league standings. Despite a second-half fightback, with Cristhian Stuani converting a penalty and Brazilian forward Sávio scoring in injury time, Girona’s hopes of a league and cup double were dashed.
Xavi’s Disappointment and Pride
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez expressed his disappointment after the defeat to Bilbao, acknowledging the missed opportunity to claim a trophy. However, he also praised his young players for their performance, particularly Yamal, who made history with his goal. Xavi recognized the difficulty of playing against Bilbao, a team known for their intensity and physicality.
Conclusion
Barcelona’s cup exit adds to their recent struggles, having already been eliminated from the Spanish Super Cup and trailing Real Madrid by eight points in the La Liga title race. The Blaugrana will now turn their attention to the UEFA Champions League, where they face Napoli in the knockout stages next month. Meanwhile, Athletic Bilbao’s victory keeps their hopes of a Copa del Rey triumph alive, as they advance to the semifinals of the competition.