Guadalajara, Spain – December 17, 2025 – Defending Copa del Rey champions Barcelona secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory against third-tier side Guadalajara, advancing to the last 16 of Spain’s premier domestic cup competition. Late strikes from Andreas Christensen and Marcus Rashford proved decisive at the Estadio Pedro Escartin on Tuesday.

Barcelona Struggles Against Resolute Guadalajara Defense

Despite dominating possession, Barcelona labored throughout the match, controlling over 80% of the ball but finding it difficult to break down a compact five-man Guadalajara defensive line. The underdogs remained dangerous on the counterattack, frustrating the European heavyweights for much of the first half.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick responded by introducing key starters from the bench, including Pau Cubarsi, Alejandro Balde, Jules Kounde, and Pedri, hoping to unlock the stubborn Guadalajara defense.

Christensen’s Header Breaks Deadlock

The breakthrough finally came in the 77th minute. Frenkie de Jong delivered a precise cross from the right flank, and defender Andreas Christensen rose to meet the ball. His header deflected off Guadalajara’s Julio Martinez before finding the net, giving Barcelona a crucial 1-0 lead.

Guadalajara almost responded immediately. Salifo Caropitche unleashed a powerful long-range effort, only for Marc-Andre ter Stegen, playing his first competitive match for Barcelona since May, to react superbly and tip the ball over the crossbar.

Rashford Seals the Win in Final Minutes

As the match drew to a close, Lamine Yamal produced a sublime through-ball, threading the ball perfectly to Marcus Rashford. The English forward showed composure, cutting inside to wrong-foot goalkeeper Dani Vicente before calmly slotting the ball into the empty net in the 90th minute.

“This is always a tricky competition,” said Pau Cubarsi post-match. “Teams give everything, and we have to match that. In the second half, we moved the ball side to side, tired them out, and that made the difference. Guadalajara played spectacularly well.”

Barcelona Moves Forward in Copa del Rey

With this win, Barcelona progresses to the round of 16, keeping their hopes alive for another Copa del Rey title. While they dominated possession, the match highlighted the importance of squad depth and tactical adjustments, as late substitutions proved crucial in breaking down Guadalajara’s resilient defense.

The match also marked a return to competitive action for Ter Stegen, whose presence in goal was pivotal in maintaining Barcelona’s slim lead. Looking ahead, Barcelona will face increasingly tough opposition in the next round, where both squad rotation and tactical flexibility will be key to continuing their cup defense.