Real Madrid claimed their 20th Copa del Rey title with a 2-1 triumph over Osasuna in Seville on Saturday.
Brazilian forward Rodrygo Goes propelled the reigning Spanish and European champions into an early lead, scoring in the second minute. However, despite Madrid’s first-half dominance and a missed opportunity by Karim Benzema to extend their lead, Osasuna struck back in the second half with a 58th-minute equalizer from midfielder Lucas Torro.
After being denied a penalty and receiving a booking for protesting, Vinicius Junior found himself at the center of a heated exchange with Osasuna substitute Chimy Avila at halftime, requiring Lucas Vazquez’s intervention to calm the situation.
Rodrygo’s second goal came as he capitalized on a rebound, securing his double, the victory, and the coveted trophy for Real Madrid. This win concludes Madrid’s nine-year Copa del Rey drought and marks Rodrygo’s fourth trophy with the team.
Despite a valiant effort, Osasuna ultimately failed to pursue a first major trophy. The team’s supporters, nevertheless, celebrated their players’ endeavors, even igniting a flare that required extinguishing.
Real Madrid’s focus now shifts to Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League semi-final match against Manchester City.
The Copa del Rey victory is anticipated to bolster Carlo Ancelotti’s squad’s confidence ahead of this pivotal encounter.
With Luka Modric sidelined due to injury, Osasuna’s coach Jagoba Arrasate attempted to counteract Madrid winger Vinicius Junior’s threat by positioning midfielder Jon Moncayola at right-back. However, Vinicius proved a formidable force, playing a crucial role in Madrid’s goals.
The win carries special significance for Rodrygo, who joined Real Madrid from Santos in 2019. The 22-year-old Brazilian has now captured every possible club trophy with Madrid.
Expressing his ambition for continued success, Rodrygo said, “I want to keep winning a lot more, to win this cup many more times.”
Ultimately, Real Madrid emerged as deserving Copa del Rey champions, expected to invigorate the team as they vie for additional silverware this season.
