Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was unstoppable as the Blaugrana stormed into the Copa del Rey quarter-finals with a commanding 5-1 victory over Real Betis on Wednesday night. Fresh off a stunning triumph over Real Madrid, Barca delivered another masterclass, led by the brilliance of their 17-year-old prodigy.
The night began with an explosive start as Gavi put Barcelona ahead just three minutes into the match. The youngster calmly slotted the ball into the corner after a smart assist from Dani Olmo, settling the team’s nerves early. Olmo, recently cleared to play after registration issues, nearly doubled the lead moments later, but his efforts were thwarted by Betis goalkeeper Fran Vieites and the goalpost.
Betis, determined to fight back, managed a heroic goal-line clearance from Marc Bartra to deny Raphinha, but Barcelona soon found their second. Jules Kounde smashed the ball into the net in the 27th minute, courtesy of a beautifully threaded pass from Yamal. Kounde nearly had a second before halftime, but his strike was ruled offside, as was Yamal’s brilliant volley from Frenkie de Jong’s lofted ball.
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Raphinha extended the lead just before the hour mark with his 20th goal of the season. The Brazilian’s finish came after a dazzling run from Yamal, who left Betis defenders scrambling. Substitutes also made their mark, with Ferran Torres adding a fourth in the 67th minute, executing a stunning volley inside the box.
Yamal capped off his magical performance in the 75th minute with a well-deserved goal. Showing composure beyond his years, he slotted the ball past Vieites to make it 5-0. “He’s simply a joy to watch,” Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said after the match. “His ability to dictate the game at such a young age is incredible.”
Real Betis managed to grab a consolation goal in the 84th minute through a penalty by Barcelona loanee Vitor Roque after Kounde brought down Jesus Rodriguez in the box. Despite the goal, Betis were no match for the rampant Blaugrana.
Player Performances
Barcelona’s goalkeeper Inaki Pena had a relatively quiet night but produced a stunning first-half save to deny Roque. Jules Kounde was solid in defense and clinical in attack, although his late penalty conceded slightly marred his performance. Ronald Araujo and Pau Cubarsi were equally impressive at the back, with Araujo making crucial recovery tackles.
In midfield, Frenkie de Jong showcased his usual efficiency and nearly provided the assist of the season, which was ruled out for offside. Gavi and Pedri were tireless, with Gavi scoring the opener and Pedri dominating Betis’ midfield.
The attack, however, stole the spotlight. Raphinha continued his red-hot form, scoring one and creating multiple chances. Dani Olmo, playing as a false nine, delivered two assists, including a sublime setup for Torres. But it was Yamal who stole the show with his dazzling runs, pinpoint passes, and deserved goal. “He’s one of the best young talents I’ve ever seen,” teammate Raphinha said after the match.
A Tactical Masterclass
Hansi Flick’s decision to rotate the squad following their Super Cup win over Real Madrid paid off. The team’s fluid attacking play and defensive solidity left Betis struggling to cope. Flick praised his players for their hunger and execution. “This team knows how to rise to the occasion,” he said.
With this emphatic victory, Barcelona sent a clear message to their rivals as they continue their quest for the Copa del Rey title. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if the magic of Lamine Yamal and the rest of the Blaugrana squad can carry them all the way to glory.