In a thrilling Copa del Rey final on April 26, 2025, at Seville’s Estadio de La Cartuja, FC Barcelona secured a record-extending 32nd Spanish Cup title with a dramatic 3-2 extra-time win over fierce rivals Real Madrid. While both sides displayed attacking flair, it was Barcelona’s French defender Jules Koundé who emerged as the standout performer, combining defensive solidity, tactical sharpness, and a moment of sheer brilliance to seal the victory.
Facing a star-studded Real Madrid frontline featuring Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr., and Jude Bellingham, Koundé rose to the occasion. Although Mbappé came off the bench to score a spectacular free-kick equalizer in the 70th minute, Koundé’s discipline and positioning kept Madrid’s fearsome attackers largely quiet.
From the outset, Koundé was tasked with containing Vinícius Jr., one of the world’s most dangerous wingers. Using his anticipation and strength, Koundé neutralized the Brazilian’s threat, notably forcing an offside in a key first-half moment that potentially prevented a penalty.
Koundé’s partnership with young defender Pau Cubarsí proved vital, forming a resilient backline that limited Madrid’s chances despite a second-half surge. Even after Aurélien Tchouaméni headed Madrid into a 2-1 lead in the 77th minute, Koundé’s leadership kept Barcelona composed as the match pushed into extra time.
The decisive moment arrived in the 116th minute. With the score tied at 2-2 and penalties looming, Koundé pounced on a misplaced pass from Brahim Díaz, drove forward, and unleashed a stunning 25-yard strike into the bottom corner past Thibaut Courtois. The stadium erupted as his teammates swarmed him, celebrating the goal that secured the trophy.
Koundé’s all-around game, often seen under coach Hansi Flick—whether as a center-back or right-back—was on full display. Social media was quick to hail his “brilliant move,” noting that while Madrid’s error contributed, Koundé’s strike was the defining moment of the match.
Beyond his goal, Koundé was instrumental in executing Flick’s tactical plan. His vision and distribution sparked counter-attacks, including the buildup to Ferran Torres’ 84th-minute equalizer. His defensive line management repeatedly caught Madrid’s forwards offside, and his calmness under pressure in extra time, aided by key saves from goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, helped Barcelona withstand Madrid’s late pressure.
The Copa del Rey final performance capped a stellar season for the 26-year-old, who has been a key figure in Barcelona’s resurgence under Flick. With three goals this season and consistent excellence in big games, especially against Real Madrid, Koundé has reinforced his reputation as one of Europe’s elite defenders.
His dominance in El Clásico matches this season—including a 4-0 league win at the Santiago Bernabéu and a 5-2 Spanish Super Cup victory—has further cemented his status.
Jules Koundé’s masterclass in the 2025 Copa del Rey final combined toughness, intelligence, and a flash of brilliance. By shutting down Madrid’s attack and delivering the winning goal, he etched his name into Barcelona folklore. With this victory, Barcelona not only lift another trophy but also send a powerful message about their ambitions—and with Koundé at the heart of their defense, the future looks exceptionally bright.
