Softfootball understands that defending champions FC Barcelona booked their place within the Copa del Rey quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over a cussed Racing Santander facet at a rocking Estadio El Sardinero. following their current 3-2 Tremendous Cup last victory towards Actual Madrid and a 5-0 victory towards Athletic Membership.
After the sport Barcelona shared a put up concerning the consequence through their official X account.
Targets from Ferran Torres and teenage star Lamine Yamal within the second half had been sufficient to get the job completed. From the primary whistle, Racing confirmed they weren’t right here to make up numbers.
Barcelona might have loved many of the ball, however they discovered little pleasure making an attempt to play by way of the center. Possibilities had been uncommon, rhythm was damaged, and passes went sideways greater than ahead.
Racing, in the meantime, seemed harmful on the break. Barcelona goalkeeper Joan García, handed a uncommon begin, was known as into motion early and infrequently, producing a collection of sharp saves contained in the opening 20 minutes. By half-time, the scoreboard stayed clean, although the hosts in all probability felt they’d completed greater than sufficient to bother the favourites.
The sample didn’t change a lot after the break. Racing stored their form, Barcelona stored probing, however the last contact stored going lacking.
That was till Fermín López stepped off the bench and shifted the tempo. Within the 66th minute, his completely weighted by way of ball reduce Racing open, permitting Ferran Torres, carrying the captain’s armband, to around the keeper and end calmly into an empty internet. Easy, however lethal.
Racing pushed onerous for a late equaliser and nearly bought it. In stoppage time, Manex Lozano broke by way of, just for García to face tall as soon as once more. Seconds later, Barcelona struck on the counter. Raphinha squared throughout purpose, and Lamine Yamal tapped dwelling on the far put up within the ninety fifth minute, sealing the tie and, actually, ending the drama.
It wasn’t classic Barcelona. However cup soccer doesn’t ask for perfection, simply moments. Racing Santander deserved applause for his or her bravery and organisation, whereas Barcelona march on, nonetheless alive of their Copa del Rey title defence.
