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In an exciting Copa del Rey quarter-final, Barcelona secured their spot in the semi-finals by defeating Albacete, a team from the Segunda División. The match saw Lamine Yamal finding the back of the net, while Marcus Rashford contributed with a key assist during their victory on the road.
The reigning champions effectively ended Albacete’s impressive cup journey with a display marked by strategic control and crucial goals. This win ensured Barcelona’s presence in the final four, as they continue their quest for more trophies under the guidance of head coach Hansi Flick.
Yamal breaks the deadlock
From the outset, Barcelona took charge of possession, creating their first significant chance within eight minutes. Rashford, set up by Dani Olmo, narrowly missed the target with his shot.
Despite their dominance in possession, Barcelona found clear opportunities hard to come by until they finally broke through just before the halftime whistle.
The deadlock was broken in the 39th minute when Yamal scored his first goal of this Copa del Rey campaign, putting Barcelona in the lead.
After Barcelona won the ball high up the pitch through Rashford and Frenkie de Jong, the 18-year-old curled a fine finish past goalkeeper Raúl Lizoain to put the visitors ahead.
It was Yamal’s 14th goal in all competitions this campaign.
Rashford influence continues
Barcelona maintained their intensity after the restart and nearly doubled their advantage early in the second half.
Olmo saw an effort cleared off the line by Dani Bernabeu following a strong individual run from Rashford down the flank.
The second goal arrived 11 minutes into the half. From a Rashford corner, defender Ronald Araújo rose highest to head home and extend Barcelona’s lead.
The assist marked another productive contribution for Rashford, who has now reached double figures for goals and assists across all competitions this season.
Albacete, appearing in their first competitive meeting with Barcelona since 2005, refused to fold and were rewarded late on.
Defender Javi Moreno reduced the deficit in the 87th minute, heading in from José Carlos Lazo’s cross to give the home crowd hope.
Barcelona managed the closing stages, with Ferran Torres having a late goal ruled out for offside in added time.
The result brings an end to Albacete’s memorable cup journey, which included a dramatic previous-round victory over Real Madrid.
Barcelona, meanwhile, move one step closer to retaining the Copa del Rey as they await their semi-final opponents.