Barcelona knocked out of Copa del Rey after 4-2 extra-time loss to Athletic Bilbao

Barcelona experienced a painful exit from the Copa del Rey quarter-finals with a 4-2 defeat against Athletic Bilbao at the Cathedral of San Mamés on Wednesday night. The match got off to a shocking start for Barcelona, conceding a goal just 37 seconds into the game. Gorka Guruzeta capitalized on a defensive error, giving Athletic Bilbao an early lead.

Despite the nightmare start, Barcelona showcased composure and resilience. They equalized in the 26th minute when a long ball from Andreas Christensen found Ferran Torres, who then set up Pedri. Pedri’s attempt to score was deflected off Robert Lewandowski and into the net, providing Barcelona with an unlikely equalizer.

Barcelona completed the turnaround in the 30th minute when 16-year-old Lamine Yamal embarked on a sensational solo run, culminating in a skillful curling shot that beat the Bilbao goalkeeper. Barça headed into halftime with a 2-1 lead.

The second half saw Athletic Bilbao responding early, as Oihan Sancet capitalized on a Nico Williams cross to level the score at 2-2. Bilbao’s momentum increased with the return of Iñaki Williams, and they looked the more likely team to find a winning goal.

Barcelona had a golden opportunity to regain the lead when Lamine Yamal found himself with ample space in front of the goal, but his attempted chip went wide. The missed chance meant the match went into extra time.

The first half of extra time saw both teams conserving energy, with Barcelona controlling possession. However, on the last play of the half, Athletic Bilbao took advantage of a counter-attack. Asier Villalibre’s pass deflected to Iñaki Williams, who initially hit the post but tapped in his rebound to give Bilbao a 3-2 lead.

In the second half of extra time, Barcelona sought an equalizer, bringing on Marc Guiu. However, Guiu missed a crucial chance, firing straight at the Bilbao goalkeeper. Athletic Bilbao nearly sealed the victory on a counter-attack, but Barcelona’s goalkeeper, Iñaki Peña, made a crucial save.

With time running out, Barcelona pushed everyone forward, but Nico Williams secured Bilbao’s victory with a goal in the 120th minute. The final whistle marked the end of a thrilling Copa del Rey encounter, with Athletic Bilbao advancing to the semi-finals.

Barcelona’s loss at San Mamés adds to a historical trend, with Athletic Bilbao consistently finding success against Barça in Copa del Rey matches at home. The defeat ends Barcelona’s journey in this season’s Copa del Rey, while Athletic Bilbao progresses to the next stage.