Yamal Shines as Barcelona Crushes Betis in Copa del Rey
Barcelona advanced to the Copa del Rey quarterfinals with a dominant 5-1 victory over Real Betis at the Olympic Stadium on Wednesday night. The star of the match was 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, who scored one goal and assisted on two others.
Barcelona, fresh off a Spanish Super Cup win against Real Madrid, started strong. Gavi opened the scoring just two minutes in, finishing a great team play. Dani Olmo, making his debut after receiving a temporary playing license, played a key role in the attack and nearly scored himself.
Jules Kounde doubled the lead with a goal set up by Yamal, and despite a disallowed goal from Kounde for offside, Barcelona’s dominance continued. Yamal saw a potential goal disallowed early in the second half but quickly assisted Raphinha for the third goal.
Yamal finally scored himself, finishing at the near post after a brilliant run, while Betis managed a late penalty from Vitor Roque.
Post-match, Gavi praised Yamal as one of the best talents in the game, while coach Hansi Flick highlighted his impact.
In other Copa del Rey action, Atletico Madrid secured a 4-0 win over Elche, with Alexander Sorloth scoring twice.
