Kounde’s late thunderbolt seals Barcelona’s Copa del Rey triumph over Real Madrid

In a night filled with drama, passion, and unforgettable moments, FC Barcelona edged Real Madrid 3-2 in an electrifying Copa del Rey final at the Estadio de La Cartuja, Sevilla, on April 26, 2025. This thrilling encounter, settled deep into extra time, saw the Catalans lift their 32nd Copa del Rey title, with Jules Koundé emerging as the undisputed hero.

The French defender was a pillar of strength at the back, repelling countless Madrid attacks. But it was his stunning offensive contribution — a thunderous strike in the 116th minute — that etched his name into Barcelona folklore. With this unforgettable goal, Koundé crowned an already commanding performance and sealed the trophy for the Blaugrana.

From the opening whistle, the intensity was palpable. Both teams demonstrated their attacking prowess, with Real Madrid unleashing a frontline led by Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr., and Jude Bellingham. Barcelona, under Hansi Flick’s astute leadership, matched their rivals stride for stride, crafting a match that kept fans at the edge of their seats.

Mbappé’s introduction in the second half injected fresh urgency into Real Madrid’s play. His precise free-kick in the 70th minute restored parity after Pedri’s opener for Barcelona, sending shockwaves through the Barcelona defense. Yet, throughout Madrid’s resurgence, Koundé remained composed, commanding the defensive line with discipline and authority.

Assigned the daunting task of marking Vinícius Jr., one of the most electrifying wingers in the world, Koundé displayed tactical brilliance. His ability to anticipate the Brazilian’s moves, combined with his physical dominance, largely neutralized Madrid’s most dangerous weapon. At one pivotal moment in the first half, Koundé’s smart positioning forced Vinícius into an offside trap, preventing what could have been a costly penalty situation.

Alongside the young prodigy Pau Cubarsí, Koundé formed a formidable defensive partnership. Their chemistry frustrated Madrid’s forward line, with both players reading the game expertly and putting their bodies on the line when it mattered most. Even when Aurélien Tchouaméni’s powerful header gave Madrid a 2-1 lead in the 77th minute, Barcelona’s backline — led by Koundé — refused to crumble.

Barcelona’s resilience bore fruit when Ferran Torres netted the equalizer in the 84th minute, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion. Flick’s tactics, emphasizing swift transitions and high pressing, found a perfect executor in Koundé, whose passing from deep positions continually launched counterattacks that troubled the Madrid defense.

As the match moved into extra time, fatigue began to take its toll. Real Madrid pushed forward relentlessly, seeking a late winner, but Barcelona stood firm. Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny made several crucial saves to deny Madrid, but it was Koundé’s moment of brilliance that ultimately swung the pendulum.

Seizing upon a loose ball gifted by Brahim Díaz, Koundé surged forward with determination. Without hesitation, he unleashed a thunderous 25-yard strike that flew past a fully stretched Thibaut Courtois. It was a goal worthy of winning any final — a perfect blend of power, precision, and audacity.

The celebrations that erupted among Barcelona’s players and fans were a testament to the magnitude of the moment. Koundé, typically reserved, roared in triumph as his teammates swarmed him. Across social media, Barcelona supporters hailed his performance, calling him the “Rock of Seville” and the “unexpected hero.”

Koundé’s goal was not only spectacular but symbolized his evolution as a complete modern defender. Under Flick’s guidance this season, the 26-year-old has expanded his game beyond traditional defending, adding an attacking edge that has proven invaluable in crucial moments.

His consistency throughout the campaign has been nothing short of exceptional. In addition to his defensive duties, Koundé has now scored three goals across all competitions this season — each one coming in vital fixtures, further enhancing his reputation among Europe’s elite defenders.

The victory in Sevilla was not an isolated act of brilliance for Koundé against Real Madrid. Earlier in the season, he played a central role in Barcelona’s emphatic 4-0 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu and their resounding 5-2 triumph in the Spanish Super Cup final. Time and again, Koundé has demonstrated that he thrives on the biggest stages.

Hansi Flick, speaking after the match, was effusive in his praise. “Jules embodies everything we are building at Barcelona — resilience, intelligence, and fearlessness,” the German coach said. “Tonight, he showed he is not just a defender; he is a leader, a match-winner.”

For Barcelona fans, this Copa del Rey success represents more than just another trophy. It is a signal of a new era dawning at the club, with players like Koundé forming the backbone of a team capable of reclaiming European dominance.

In the grand tapestry of El Clásico battles, this final will be remembered as one of the most enthralling. And at its heart stood Jules Koundé, the unlikely hero whose left foot delivered ecstasy to millions of Barcelona faithful around the world.

As the celebrations stretched long into the Seville night, one thing became clear — Jules Koundé’s thunderbolt was not just the defining moment of the final. It was the defining moment of a season that has reignited Barcelona’s dreams.