The Copa del Rey final between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid was filled with off-pitch drama and on-field tension. Before the match, Real Madrid exerted pressure on the officials through media attacks, leading to a breakdown by referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea. The club boycotted pre-match events and even considered withdrawing from the final. During the game, aggressive fouls and controversial decisions dominated, raising questions about refereeing consistency. Despite these challenges, Barcelona remained composed and ultimately triumphed in extra time.

Off the pitch, Real Madrid's tactics aimed to intimidate the referees, while on the field, their physical play sought to disrupt the game's flow. Key incidents included unpunished tackles, missed penalties, and questionable VAR decisions. Barcelona's resilience led them to victory, as they overcame Real Madrid's attempts to sway the outcome through both psychological and physical means.

Pre-Match Pressure Tactics

Prior to the Copa del Rey showdown, Real Madrid utilized media channels to criticize the appointed referee, creating an atmosphere of tension. This culminated in a public meltdown by Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea during a press conference, followed by critical remarks from VAR official Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes regarding Madrid's media strategy. Consequently, Real Madrid avoided traditional pre-game formalities like press meetings and photo sessions, signaling dissatisfaction and demanding a change in officiating personnel.

Real Madrid's actions were interpreted as strategic moves to unsettle the match officials before the game began. By leveraging RMTV, they repeatedly questioned the impartiality of the chosen referee, attempting to amplify doubts and influence decision-making under duress. Their boycott extended beyond verbal protests; sources suggested that pulling out of the final altogether was briefly considered. This approach highlighted a broader pattern of trying to manipulate outcomes through external pressures rather than focusing solely on performance within the game itself.

On-Field Controversies and Triumph

Once the match commenced, Real Madrid's planned aggression translated into numerous contentious moments marked by forceful fouls and debatable calls. Early instances such as Lucas Vazquez's tackle on Raphinha set the tone for what would be a fiercely contested encounter. Throughout the game, several potential penalties were overlooked, sparking frustration among players and fans alike. Notably, Luka Modric's late challenge on Gavi exemplified the escalating intensity, yet it resulted merely in a cautionary yellow card.

Despite facing adversity due to questionable refereeing choices, Barcelona exhibited remarkable determination. They clawed back from setbacks with Ferran Torres' equalizer and eventually secured victory through Jules Kounde's decisive strike in extra time. Post-match tensions flared when Antonio Rudiger clashed with officials, earning himself a significant ban for his conduct. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham received a red card amid rising emotions near the conclusion. Ultimately, Hansi Flick's team demonstrated superior control amidst chaos, affirming their championship win not just through skill but also through steadfastness against undue influences orchestrated by Florentino Perez and associates. This victory underscored the importance of maintaining integrity and focus regardless of external distractions or manipulative strategies employed by opponents.