Copa del Rey: Yamal scores as Barcelona seal semi-final spot
Barcelona advanced to the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey after overcoming Segunda División side Albacete, with Lamine Yamal on the scoresheet and Marcus Rashford providing an assist in the away victory.
The holders ended Albacete’s impressive cup run with a performance built on control and timely goals, confirming their place in the last four as they continue to chase silverware under head coach Hansi Flick.
Yamal breaks the deadlock
Barcelona dominated possession from the opening stages and carved out the first opportunity inside eight minutes, when Rashford fired wide after being picked out by Dani Olmo.
Despite their territorial control, clear chances were limited until the breakthrough arrived shortly before half-time.
In the 39th minute, Yamal opened the scoring with his first goal of this season’s Copa del Rey.
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.
