- Koundé scores decisive goal in 116th minute after Ferran Torres' late equalizer
- Barcelona completes 2023/24 El Clásico treble with third victory over Madrid
- Victory extends Catalans' Copa del Rey record to 32 trophies
- Madrid's Mbappé scores in first clasico appearance since transfer rumors
In a match that encapsulated Spanish football's enduring rivalry, Barcelona demonstrated remarkable resilience to secure their first silverware of the season. The 3-2 victory at Seville's La Cartuja Stadium saw 23-year-old Jules Koundé etch his name in club folklore, capitalizing on a rare Modric error to seal the win during a grueling extra-time period.
This triumph carries significant financial implications for Barcelona, with reports suggesting the €4.8m prize money could help ease Financial Fair Play restrictions. Youth development continues bearing fruit as 17-year-old Lamine Yamal became the youngest ever Copa del Rey final assist provider, continuing Barcelona's tradition of nurturing young talent.
Regional analysis reveals the match generated €28m for Andalusia's economy through tourism and matchday spending. Local hotels reported 98% occupancy rates, while Seville's tapas bars saw sales increase 73% compared to regular match weekends.
Tactical innovation proved decisive with Hansi Flick deploying a hybrid 3-4-3 formation that neutralized Madrid's wing play. The German coach has now won 83% of his matches since replacing Xavi Hernández, revitalizing a squad that appeared fatigued earlier this season.
For Real Madrid, this defeat extends their Copa del Rey drought to four seasons without victory. Post-match focus shifted to Carlo Ancelotti's future, with Brazilian Football Confederation officials reportedly initiating contact during the trophy ceremony.
Barcelona's victory sets up a crucial Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan, where they'll aim to replicate the 2015 treble-winning campaign. Medical staff confirmed Robert Lewandowski should return for Wednesday's clash, while Madrid faces squad rotation decisions before their Club World Cup participation.