Barcelona reaches Copa del Rey last 16 with 2-0 win
Barcelona secured a 2-0 victory over third-tier Guadalajara on Tuesday, reaching the last 16 of the Copa del Rey after late goals from Andreas Christensen and Marcus Rashford. Despite dominating possession—holding over 80%—Barcelona struggled to break down Guadalajara’s compact five-man defense at the Pedro Escartin stadium. The home side remained dangerous on counterattacks, keeping the Catalans on edge throughout the match. Coach Hansi Flick introduced key starters Pau Cubarsi, Alejandro Balde, Jules Kounde, and Pedri in the second half, aiming to find a breakthrough. The tactic paid off in the 77th minute when Frenkie de Jong delivered a precise cross from the right. Christensen rose highest to head the ball, which deflected off Julio Martinez and found the net. Guadalajara nearly responded immediately, with Salifo Caropitche firing a powerful long-range shot, but Marc-Andre ter Stegen—making his first appearance for Barcelona […]