FC Barcelona secur spot in final with a 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao

Jan. 9, 2025, 12:30 a.m. Sports

FC Barcelona secured their spot in the final of the Copa del Rey with a 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday night. The Catalan giants put on a dominant display at the Camp Nou, with goals from Frenkie de Jong and Riqui Puig sealing their place in the final of the prestigious tournament.

The first half saw Barcelona take control of the game, dominating possession and creating numerous chances. After a series of near misses, they finally broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute through de Jong. The Dutch midfielder received a pass from Lionel Messi inside the box and coolly slotted the ball past the Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper to give his side the lead.

Barcelona continued to press forward after taking the lead, with Messi and Antoine Griezmann causing problems for the Athletic Bilbao defense. The visitors tried to hit back on the counterattack, but Barcelona's defense held firm, with Gerard Pique and Clement Lenglet marshaling the backline effectively.

Just before half-time, Barcelona doubled their lead through Puig. The young midfielder latched onto a loose ball inside the box and fired a powerful shot into the bottom corner to give his side a comfortable advantage heading into the break.

The second half saw Athletic Bilbao improve their performance, as they looked to find a way back into the game. They created a few chances of their own, with Inaki Williams and Raul Garcia causing some trouble for the Barcelona defense. However, Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen was on hand to make some crucial saves to keep his side's clean sheet intact.

Barcelona continued to control the game in the second half, with Messi, Griezmann, and Ousmane Dembele linking up well in attack. Athletic Bilbao tried to push forward in search of a goal, but they were unable to break down the resilient Barcelona defense.

As the final whistle blew, Barcelona celebrated their victory and their place in the final of the Copa del Rey. The win was a much-needed boost for Ronald Koeman's side, who have endured a tough season so far in La Liga.

The victory over Athletic Bilbao showcased Barcelona's attacking prowess and defensive solidity, with de Jong and Puig putting in stellar performances in midfield. The duo's goals were crucial in securing the win for their side, with Messi once again proving to be a key playmaker for the Catalan giants.

Barcelona will now turn their attention to the final of the Copa del Rey, where they will face either Sevilla or Levante. The final promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Barcelona looking to add another trophy to their illustrious history.

Overall, Barcelona's 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao was a statement of intent from the Catalan giants, as they look to end the season on a high note. With their spot in the final secured, Barcelona will be hoping to cap off their campaign with some silverware and continue their tradition of success in Spanish football.