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In an inspiring act of humility and team spirit, Barcelona defender Jules Koundé returned his Man of the Match award to a teammate after their thrilling 3-2 extra-time victory over Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final at Estadio La Cartuja, Seville.
Koundé, who scored the decisive goal in the 116th minute, acknowledged that while his goal was crucial, another player’s outstanding display deserved recognition even more. The match saw Pedri give Barcelona an early lead before Madrid hit back through Kylian Mbappé and Aurélien Tchouaméni. Ferran Torres then leveled the score, sending the match into extra time, where Koundé capitalized on a Madrid mistake to clinch the win.
Despite his winning goal, Koundé highlighted that the true hero was not himself but another teammate — not Lamine Yamal or Ferran Torres — but goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, who delivered a standout performance with crucial saves that kept Barcelona alive, especially during Madrid’s heavy second-half pressure.
Koundé’s selfless gesture reflects the unity and respect within the Barcelona squad, emphasizing collective success over individual accolades. Such acts strengthen team spirit and set a powerful example for professionalism and sportsmanship in the game.
The win secured Barcelona’s 32nd Copa del Rey title, and with their current momentum and camaraderie, they look set to challenge for a historic treble this season.
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